"FANTASTIC VOYAGE"
Screenplay
by
Harry Kleiner
Final
December 22, 1964
REVISED - 1/15/65
REVISED - 1/18/65
REVISED - 1/19/65
REVISED - 1/22/65
REVISED - 1/26/65
REVISED - 1/27/65
REVISED - 2/1/65
REVISED - 2/2/65
REVISED - 2/5/65
REVISED - 2/23/65
Rev. 2/26/65
(NOTE: Due to the poor quality of the Xerox which I
was sold, several of the pages are missing a few
lines at the bottom. I have labeled these cut-offs
where they occur.)
FADE IN
1- OUT
3
A-3 EXT. TWA PLANE IN FLIGHT OVER LOS ANGELES - NIGHT
With the myriad lights of the city beneath it. As the
plane lands:
B-3 EXT. HUGE HANGAR
Troop carriers filled with ARMED SOLDIERS are lined
up before the hangar; several official cars filled
with SECRET SERVICE MEN, four MOTORCYCLE POLICEMEN,
and a caravan of three limousines complete the waiting
entourage. The CHIEF of the SECRET SERVICE looks
toward the airfield as the plane is heard taxiing in.
He turns and gets into one of the limousines, followed
by the others.
C-3 LONG SHOT - VEHICLES ON AIRFIELD
Coming toward camera. The plane looms in the f.g.
A motorized stairway is on the way toward the door of
the plane. The vehicles come to a halt before the
camera.
D-3 HIGH ANGLE SHOT - PLANE
The Armed Soldiers leap out of the troop carriers and
form a cordon around the plane. The Secret Service
Men get out within the circle of guards, wait for the
door to open.
4 EXT. JET DOOR
It opens. GRANT steps out: in middle thirties, with
the air of a man who takes nothing seriously -- his
coverup for involvement. He turns to help JAN BENES
out of the plane. Benes is Mittel European in dress
and manner. Physically, he is Schweitzer at forty:
the leonine head, the shock of hair. He carries a
battered suitcase. In response to Grant's gesture,
he precedes him down the stairs.
5 ON THE FIELD
As Benes reaches the last step, he is greeted by the
Chief of the Secret Service, who shakes his hand,
introduces him to several of his subordinates, and
leads him to a limousine. Their words are lost in
the din of jets. About to get into the car, Benes
turns and moves back quickly to Grant, who is near
the bottom of the stairs. Benes extends his hand.
They shake warmly. Benes moves back toward the
limousine.
6 GRANT - ON PLATFORM STAIRS
He watches as Benes gets into the limousine and the
caravan takes off with the Motorcycle Escort. The
Soldiers are climbing back into the troop carriers.
Grant starts down the stairs, is lost to view in the
general activity.
7- OUT
8
A-8 EXT. PICO BOULEVARD
Down which the cavalcade speeds.
B-8 EXT. WAREHOUSE DISTRICT OF STUDIO (BACK LOT)
The cavalcade races through an area of dark ware-
houses.
C-8 EXT. DESERTED STREET (BACK LOT)
A rundown area. The cavalcade starts down the street.
In the second floor of an otherwise dark house, a
light is turned on and off, an evident signal. PAN
DOWN to a heavy car, waiting in a narrow alley which
opens into the street. Its headlights are off, the
sound of its engine completely drowned by the con-
certed roar of the oncoming cars and motorcycles. As
the cavalcade nears the entrance to the alley, one
of the motorcycles comes speeding up from the rear of
the escort. The car in the alleyway starts toward
the entrance to the alley.
9- OUT
15
A-15 EXT. ALLEYWAY
The car starts hurtling forward at full speed. The
front of the limousine is now visible. A broadside
impact seems inevitable.
B-15 EXT. ALLEY
The motorcycle from the rear reaches the limousine
as the kamikaze car comes hurtling out like a motor-
ized projectile. It hits the motorcycle -- a totally
unexpected obstruction -- and sends the Policeman
flying out of scene. It is sufficient to deflect the
kamikaze car from its deadly aim. The car hits the
rear of the limousine, sends it spinning out of
control. The suicide car, also out of control, careens
toward the opposite side of the street. The limousine
smashes into a telephone pole, which brings it to a
jolting stop.
16 INT. LIMOUSINE
The impact throws Benes to the side. His head hits
the door handle with stunning force, almost knocking
him out.
17 EXT. STREET
The kamikaze car slams directly into a brick wall. It
instantly bursts into fire, engulfing the Driver. The
fitful flames illuminate the otherwise dark street.
18 EXT. LIMOUSINE
The Chief of the Secret Service jumps out of the
limousine, waves to a sedan to pull up, his shouts
lost in the general turmoil. Other Secret Service
Men are helping the dazed Benes out, shielding him.
A sedan pulls up beside the limousine.
19 INT. SEDAN
The Chief of the Secret Service instantly hustles
Benes into the rear. As he climbs in beside him, and
the other Secret Service Men rush to the other side
to get in, there is the sharp crack of a rifle shot.
It shatters the rear window of the sedan, narrowly
missing Benes. The Chief thrusts him onto the floor,
sprawls on top of Benes to cover him, while shouting
to the Driver to get going, his words indistinguish-
able in the confusion of more rifle shots, which sends
glass and bullets ricocheting through the interior of
the sedan.
20 EXT. STREET
In the eerie light of the burning car, the sedan can
be seen speeding off, flanked and spearheaded by
Motorcycle Police. The Secret Service Men and those
in the sedans are left behind, firing toward the top
floor of a nearby building from which the rifle fire
came.
21 SERIES OF IMPRESSIONISTIC CUTS THROUGH CREDITS
Without divulging the nature of the hospital, the
unconscious Jan Benes is seen undergoing a fast and
thorough medical probe by TECHNICIANS and SPECIALISTS,
using the latest equipment. Huge X-ray machines,
Centrifuges whirling blood samples, EKGs, Encephalo-
graphs, and a variety of instruments used in cerebral
examinations are featured. After the LAST CREDIT:
A-21 EXT. CITY STREET - NIGHT
It is late. A car is speeding along.
B-21 INT. CAR
Seated in the rear, Grant looks as if he has just been
aroused from sleep and hustled into the car in a hurry.
He is getting into his shirt, helped by a MAN beside him.
There is a smudge of lipstick on his cheek.
MAN
Sorry we had to get you up at this
hour, Mr. Grant.
GRANT
(yawning)
I thought I was on my vacation...
What's it all about?
MAN
I can't tell you.
GRANT
Where we going?
MAN
I can't tell you that either...
Excuse me, Mr. Grant, but you've
got a smudge on your cheek.
He takes out handkerchief, realizing Grant can't see it.
MAN
May I?
GRANT
Go ahead.
As Grant finishes buttoning on his shirt, the Man rubs
off the lipstick. Then he throws the handkerchief out
of the car.
GRANT
What'd you do that for?
MAN
I'm married.
GRANT
And she said it was indelible...
DISSOLVE TO:
C-21 EXT. DESERTED WAREHOUSE - PARKING AREA - NIGHT
The car bearing Grant pulls up on an unpaved parking
area used for loading trucks. Nothing stirs. The
DRIVER shuts off the engine and lights.
D-21 INT. CAR
The Driver and the Man in the rear get out. As Grant
starts to follow:
MAN
You're to stay inside, Mr. Grant.
(answering look)
And wait...
They close their respective doors, leaving Grant alone
in the car, looking out mystified into the darkness.
E-21 EXT. PARKING AREA
The two men move off together, until they reach what
they obviously know is a proscribed distance from the
car. Then they stop and look at it. For a moment
nothing happens, then the ground seemingly starts to
sink with the car.
F-21 INT. CAR
Grant is startled to see the earth sliding up past the
car.
G-21 LONG SHOT - ELEVATOR SHAFT
It now becomes apparent that the car has been resting on
what is really the top of an elevator shaft. The sides
of the shaft now become visible: it is seemingly bottom-
less.
H-21 INT. CAR - IN SHAFT
Grant responds as the elevator finally comes to a halt.
22- OUT
39
40 INT. BOTTOM OF ELEVATOR SHAFT
The car is on the earthen platform. Two big doors open.
A scooter bearing the distinctive insignia of the CMDF
appears, driven by an M.P. wearing the same emblem.
Grant gets out of the car, is waved by the M.P. into the
scooter. He gets in, is driven away.
41 INT. UNDERGROUND ORDNANCE DEPOT
They pass through a vast empty area, obviously capable
of holding large pieces of equipment. The insignia of
the CMDF is prominent.
42- OUT
43
A-43 RAMP
The scooter carrying Grant speeds up the incline to:
44 INT. CENTRAL CLEARANCE AREA
MALE and FEMALE OFFICERS, all in the uniform of the CMDF,
are moving about busily. As the M.P. and Grant drive
across the foyer, Grant eyes the Female CMDFs apprecia-
tively. Their uniforms emphasize non-military points.
The scooter reaches:
45 INT. CLEARANCE DESK
The OFFICER behind the desk looks up.
OFFICER
Your I.D. card, please.
Grant takes out a card with only an embossed number. The
Officer places it into an IDENTIFIER. We see its screen
is blank. After a moment, Grant's picture flashes on in
color, in full view and profile. The Officer looks up at
Grant, sees it is an exact likeness. He then extracts
the card. The screen goes blank. He hands Grant the
I.D. card. The scooter takes off, speeding down a long
neon-lit corridor, marked off for scooter traffic: four
lanes, two in each direction. Numerous doors leading to
offices open on both sides of the walkways. Traffic is
heavy. Grant is the only one in mufti. The scooter
approaches doors over which lights flash:
MEDICAL DIVISIONAUTHORIZED PERSONNELONLY ONLY ONLY!
As the scooter nears the Sentry Box, the M.P. on duty
hits a switch. The steel doors slide open. The scooter
goes through into:
46- OUT
50
51 INT. MEDICAL FOYER
GENERAL ALAN CARTER is coming out of a door in a hurry.
The scooter bearing Grant pulls up beside him. Grant
gets out. They shake hands.
CARTER
Hello, Grant. Good to see you
again.
GRANT
The Pentagon, wasn't it, General?
Only you weren't in that uniform...
Too preoccupied to elucidate, Carter leads him through
a nearby door into:
52 INT. OBSERVATION ROOM
They move to window overlooking the OPERATING ROOM, see
the unconscious Benes being wheeled in for Surgery. His
head is uncovered. The full shock of hair stands out
against the white pillow. His body is draped in the
usual manner. A battery of SPECIALISTS and MEDICAL
ATTENDANTS, MALE and FEMALE, are moving about under the
glare of beams focused on the Operating Table.
GRANT
(startled)
Benes... What the devil happened?
CARTER
The Other Side got to him.
GRANT
How bad off is he?
CARTER
Brain injury.
GRANT
Before or after what he wanted to
tell you?
CARTER
Before he could breathe a word.
He's the only scientist who knows
the answer to what we're after.
That's why we have to operate --
He turns away from the window, moves toward another door,
with Grant following.
CARTER
-- and why we need you.
GRANT
Me?
Bewildered, he follows Carter through door into:
53- OUT
55
56 INT. MONITORING ROOM
Carter moves to a panel of many switches and TV screens.
GRANT
I can't even put a Band-Aid on
my finger.
CARTER
Here's the Surgeon.
He flicks a switch. On the TV screen appears the
INTERIOR OF DUVAL'S OFFICE. We see DUVAL, a brain
surgeon in the middle forties. He has the manner of
one totally dedicated to his work. At the moment, he
is testing a ruby laser, narrowing the beam down to
pencil-like thinness. Assisting him is CORA PETERSON.
In the middle twenties, her attractiveness is matched
by her efficiency, which is considerable. They work
together smoothly, the result of long association.
It is evident neither know they are being observed
during:
CARTER
Duval. Dr. Peter Duval. Top brain
man in the country. Ever hear of
him?
GRANT
Sorry, but I'm rusty on surgeons.
Who's the girl?
CARTER
Cora Peterson, his Technical
Assistant. You'll join Duval
and the others --
GRANT
What can I do? Except maybe pass
out?
Carter flips on another switch. On the TV screen
appears the INTERIOR OF DR. MICHAELS' OFFICE. It is
dominated by big blowups of the Circulation System.
Michaels is assembling charts, as if under pressure.
CARTER'S VOICE
(on loudspeaker)
Mike...
Michaels moves to a wall, presses a switch. His TV
screen shows Grant and Carter.
MICHAELS
Yes, Alan.
CARTER
Meet Grant. This is Dr. Michaels,
Chief of the Medical Section.
MICHAELS
Glad to have you with us, Mr. Grant.
GRANT
Wish I knew why.
CARTER
Tell him where he fits in, will you?
I've got a few things to check out.
He moves to another panel, is seen throwing on switches,
monitoring a fast series of scenes, all of which are
indistinguishable in angle of shot. Michaels is seen
bustling about, collecting charts during:
MICHAELS
We need you for Security purposes,
Mr. Grant.
GRANT
At an operation?
MICHAELS
They know they failed to kill
Benes. Security thinks they'll try
again, first chance they get. We're
afraid of medical sabotage -- or
surgical assassination.
GRANT
Surgical assassination?! But that
means you suspect --
CARTER
(re-entering scene)
[LINE OF DIALOGUE CUT OFF]
MICHAELS
I don't agree. Just because he's
often difficult --
CARTER
Difficult? He's impossible!
MICHAELS
That's no reason to suspect him of
disloyalty.
GRANT
But why take the chance, when there
must be other doctors?
CARTER
We have no choice. Duval's the most
skillful brain surgeon in the country,
and he's right here, at hand.
GRANT
I wouldn't know if he's trying to
save him or kill him.
MICHAELS
I'll be standing by. I'll know.
CARTER
(to Grant)
And no matter what happens, you're
to take orders only from Dr. Michaels,
understand?
GRANT
Right, sir.
CARTER
Come along, they'll be operating
shortly.
(hand on switch)
See you later, Mike.
Michaels waves. Carter switches off the monitor. He
moves to a door. Grant follows.
57- OUT
61
62 INT. MEDICAL FOYER
As they emerge:
GRANT
His technician okay? In addition
to the Looks Department?
CARTER
No question of her loyalty.
As Carter leads Grant to the scooter and they take their
places, Grant looks at the big CMDF insignia on the floor.
GRANT
I don't mean to be inquisitive.
But this CMDF -- for all I know
it could stand for ConsolidatedMobilizationofFemaleDelinquents?
CARTER
(matter-of-fact)
CombinedMiniatureDeterrentForces.
GRANT
(blankly)
Say that again?
Carter starts the scooter and they drive through the big
doors leading out of the Medical Foyer.
63- OUT
74
75 INT. CORRIDOR - TRAVELING WITH SCOOTER
CARTER
We can reduce anything down to any
size we want. People -- ships --
tanks -- planes...
GRANT
General, I've heard some wild ones.
But this takes it.
CARTER
We can shrink an Army -- with all
its equipment -- and put it in a
bottle cap. That's why we call it
CombinedMiniatureDeterrentForces.
GRANT
(with silent whistle)
If the Other Side ever gets hold of
a thing like that...
CARTER
They have...
(answering look)
But we've both got the same problem
-- lack of control. We can only
keep things Miniaturized for exactly
sixty minutes. After that, every-
thing starts growing back to its
original size.
They arrive at the root of the escalator, leave the
scooter and board the moving stairway.
76 WITH ESCALATOR
As they ride up:
GRANT
I assume Benes knows how to control
it.
CARTER
That's right. He wanted us to
have the secret, and not them.
Which is why they tried to kill
him.
GRANT
They're bound to try again. No
wonder they want me to stand by
during the operation.
CARTER
And take a little trip with them...
GRANT
(bewildered)
Trip? Where to?
CARTER
(matter-of-fact)
Well, the only way to reach that
clot is from inside the Brain. So
we've decided to put a Surgical
Team and a Crew into a submarine --
reduce it way down in size, and
inject it into an Artery --
GRANT
(jolted)
You mean I'm going along?
CARTER
As part of the Crew.
GRANT
Wait a minute! They can't shrink
me!
CARTER
(assuringly)
Grant, our Miniaturizer can shrink
anything.
GRANT
But I don't want to be Miniaturized -- !
CARTER
It's only for an hour --
GRANT
Not even for a minute! General
Carter, sir, I'd like you to
reconsider your choice. I'm just
not the right man for a mission
of this kind.
He starts walking against the direction of the escalator,
thus remaining in the same place.
CARTER
(taking his arm)
Come on, Grant. You're going to a
Briefing.
They have reached the top of the escalator. Nearby is
a door marked:
CONFERENCE ROOM
Carter opens the door, waves him in.
77 INT. CONFERENCE ROOM
Grant and Carter enter in the middle of what is evidently
a heated argument between COLONEL DONALD REID and Duval.
Reid is in the uniform of the CMDF, with a cadaceus
which indicates he is the Medical Division. Also present
is CAPTAIN BILL OWENS, in Naval uniform, and Michaels.
Cora stands beside Duval, rather abashed, since she is
the cause of the vociferous disagreement.
DUVAL
(irascibly)
Miss Peterson volunteered to come
along!
REID
So did every male Technician in the
Unit. A woman has no place on a
mission of this kind.
DUVAL
(brooking no rebuttal)
I insist on taking my Technician.
REID
You'll take whoever I assign!
DUVAL
(angrily)
Don't tell me whom I'm to work
with! Not on this operation or
any other! I'll do what I think
is best, without any interference
from anyone!
Before Reid can reply:
MICHAELS
(diplomatically)
Dr. Duval has relied on Miss Peterson
for years. And since she wants to
come along, I'm sure it's for the best,
Dr. Reid.
REID
(making best of
defeat)
I don't agree with you -- but since
you're in charge, you can do as you
please. But I want to go on record
as being against it.
CARTER
Grant -- Colonel Reid, Operation
Commander.
(they nod; of
Michaels)
You've met our Medical Chief.
Grant and Michaels shake hands, in effect their first
meeting vis-a-vis.
CARTER
This is Dr. Duval, our Head Surgeon.
GRANT
Oh yes, I've heard of you, Doctor.
With the attitude of the completely dedicated profes-
sional, Duval throws him a cursory glance, nods, sits
down, quickly opens up a folder containing the latest
lab reports on Benes, which he scans during:
MICHAELS
Miss Peterson, his Technical
Assistant.
GRANT
(the charmer)
How are you, Miss Peterson?
She responds with an impersonal nod, sits down beside
Duval and opens up her sheaf of lab reports, handing
him the pertinent ones during:
CARTER
This is Captain Bill Owens, designer
of an experimental submarine for
the Navy's 'Oceanographic Research
and Development Program.'
As they shake hands:
GRANT
Out of your element, aren't you,
Captain?
OWENS
Sort of.
GRANT
That makes two of us.
CARTER
Grant's uniquely qualified for this
mission. He's a Communications
Expert and was a Frogman during the
War. Besides, he brought Benes into
this country, and the fewer people
who know about him, the better. At
any rate, you'll find Grant invalu-
able, should anything go wrong once
you're under way.
(to Reid)
Okay, Don.
REID
Here's the overall Target Area...
Reid presses a switch. A large anatomical map of a
Brain flashes on a central screen. The ganglia and
dendrites form a network, much like intersecting roads
in a detailed war map. The clot is a solid obstruc-
tion in the center. Grid lines cross the map vertically
and horizontally as points of reference. The entire
projection has a three-dimensional effect, since it is
drawn in perspective.
DUVAL
Benes' brain...near as we can map
it stereotaxically...
He switches on a flashlight arrow, points to the clot.
DUVAL
The clot's right here...
He switches off the arrow and quickly flashes it on
again, this time on the edges of the map. The arrow
now probes and withdraws from the base, center and top
of the brain, like the animated technique of showing
an attack which is repulsed at the perimeter.
DUVAL
Impossible to get at --
(arrow makes vertical
penetration to give
impression of wide cut)
-- without damage to the intervening
tissue...which would prove fatal to
Benes.
He presses another switch. A startling OVERLAY OF THE
BLOOD VESSELS OF THE HEAD AND NECK appears over the
anatomical drawing of the brain, encasing it. The red-
colored arteries and blue-colored veins form such an
intricate maze, that finding one's way through it seems
virtually impossible.
DUVAL
The only way to reach it is via
the Arterial System.
Grant looks at Cora. She is busy making notes from
the projected map. Owens is showing no undue reaction,
apparently having been apprised.
REID
Phase One calls for Miniaturizing
a submarine, with Crew and Surgical
Team, and injecting it into the
Carotid Artery.
He points with the arrow to the exact spot.
OWENS
How small would that be?
REID
About the size of a microbe.
GRANT
Colonel, I'm sure that's quite a
comfortable size, but --
REID
Reduced proportionately, you won't
find it too strange --
GRANT
All in a day's work, sure. But I
was thinking of the speed of the
Circulatory System.
MICHAELS
About forty miles an hour.
GRANT
Well, it seems to me if you reduce
a ship to microscopic size -- and
the stream remains constant -- we'd
take quite a beating.
OWENS
(very worried)
I hope you've taken that into
account --
CARTER
We have.
REID
You won't be going anywhere near
that fast. We're putting Benes
in deep Hypothermia -- that is,
freezing him low as compatible
with human life. It'll slow down
his heartbeat, Circulation, and
all other physical processes.
Owens begins polishing his glasses, indicating his
inner qualms.
OWENS
Even so, because of our size --
I mean lack of it -- we'll still be
cruising mighty fast. We'll be
smashed to bits if there's any
turbulence --
MICHAELS
(pointing with
flashing arrow)
The only danger of turbulence is
in the Heart -- and we're not going
through it.
(flashing arrow)
Once in the Carotid Artery, we'll
remain in the Arterial System...
until we reach the point of damage --
(flashes around clot)
-- where Dr. Duval will attempt to
dissolve the clot with a laser beam.
After the operation, we'll return
by way of the Venous System --
(coursing down
with arrow)
-- until we reach the base of the
neck --
(arrow stops)
-- where we'll be removed right
here -- with a hypodermic.
GRANT
How will you know where the sub is,
at any particular moment?
REID
Dr. Michaels -- our Circulatory
Specialist -- will serve as your
Navigator. He'll know just where
you are. And you can communicate
directly with us, by wireless.
Besides, the sub is nuclear-powered,
and we'll be tracking it just as we
would any radio-active tracer.
CARTER
There'll be a team of Surgeons
standing by. We're prepared to
remove you immediately, should
anything go wrong. In any event,
you must be out within sixty minutes.
After that, you'll be in danger of
attack.
GRANT
Attack? Who -- or should I say
what from?
REID
Benes' natural defenses. White
Corpuscles -- Antibodies. Once
you begin to grow -- and become a
menace to the body -- you'll
trigger them off...
MICHAELS
With all the unknown factors in
the body, I still say risking five
lives for one is something we
should reconsider --
CARTER
We understand your concern, but
we've made our decision, Doctor.
Any questions? Anybody?
GRANT
Just one, General...
CARTER
Yes?
GRANT
Where can I get a cab back to town?
No one responds to the attempted levity. Carter rises.
CARTER
(to all)
Proceed to the Sterilization
Section.
Carter and Reid move out of the room through the door.
The others go out through another.
78- OUT
80
A-80 INT. CORRIDOR
The five appear and stop before a cylindrical door with
handles similar to those in a vault, to give the effect
of a sealed chamber within. Over the door flashes:
STERILIZATIONSECTION
The five reach the door. An electronic beam swings it
open automatically. They start in. As Grant moves past
the sign:
GRANT
How much can a man give to his
country?
The door swings automatically shut behind him.
81 OUT
82 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A huge plastic bubble in the form of a truncated semi-
circle, with glass panels overlooking areas not visible
in the angle of the shot. TECHNICIANS in the uniform
of the CMDF are seated at a desk-level bank of monitors,
on a slightly raised platform. They are checking the
numerous TV screens for focus. A cacophony of B-Beeps
from the screens underscores the sense of last-minute
preparations. A COMMUNICATIONS AIDE wearing headphones
and throat microphone moves about. Carter crosses to
the Miniaturization Control Panel. Reid goes to the
window overlooking the OPERATING ROOM. Below, he can see
Benes on the operating table, a towel over his head.
Surgical Aides are making a last-minute check of the
Thermal Blanket which encases him in three sections.
Reid presses a button on the wall beside the window.
REID
Make the final preparations...
They begin to remove the towel from Benes' head. Reid
turns away from the window and crosses to the window
overlooking the MAIN OPS ROOM. With him we see a huge
room, bisected by a floor-to-ceiling detailed map of the
entire ARTERIAL and VENOUS SYSTEM from rib-cage to skull,
to simulate the body of Benes in a prone position.
Grid lines mark off areas in relation to true North and
South. TECHNICIANS are bustling about with charts and
reports which are coming in through headphones, tele-
phones, teletypes, batteries of Computers, Oscillographs,
etc. Encircling the entire floor are glass-fronted
booths which enclose the SPECIALISTS' POSTS. Reid turns
to a Technician at the Master Control Section.
REID
(to Technician)
Heart.
The Technician flips on a switch. On a TV screen
appears the INTERIOR OF THE HEART POST, one of the glass-
enclosed booths looking out onto the MAIN OPS ROOM.
Like all the Specialists Posts, it is concerned with
its particular area and nothing else: Blowups of the
Heart in great detail, X-rays of Benes' heart, its beat
being recorded electronically on a huge EKG chart which
fills one wall and is in constant operation via remote
control. The HEART SPECIALIST is standing before the
EKG chart, while a TECHNICIAN twirls dials at a panel.
Reid can be seen in the closed TV circuit in the Heart
Post. (As in all subsequent TV communications.)
REID
How's it look, Henry?
HEART SPECIALIST
(over TV)
Holding steady at thirty-two per
minute.
REID
(to another Technician)
Respiration.
The Technician flips on another switch. On a TV screen
appears the INTERIOR OF THE RESPIRATION POST. Here
everything relates only to the lungs. In addition to
cut-away sections where each small area assumes the
proportions of a detailed war map, there are banks of
Benes' X-rays, lit up in panels, plus immense calibrated
charts labeled INHALATION and EXHALATION, on which the
rate is being electronically recorded.
REID
How's he doing, Jack?
The Lung Specialist is seen glancing at a chart.
LUNG SPECIALIST
(over TV)
Respiration is now six per minute...
I wouldn't take him down any further.
Another Technician flips switch in response to:
REID
Hypothermia...
On a TV screen appears the INTERIOR OF THE HYPOTHERMIA
POST, its walls festooned with dials recording bodily
temperature, before which TECHNICIANS sit watching and
making minute adjustments. The HYPOTHERMIA SPECIALIST
moves along, keeping a sharp eye on the various zones
labeled: CIRCULATORY, RESPIRATORY, CARDIAC, RENAL,
etc.
REID
Any problems, Dr. Sawyer?
HYPOTHERMIA SPECIALIST
(over TV)
No sir. We're holding him at twenty-
eight degrees Centigrade.
Carter enters, moves to the Control Section to join Reid.
CARTER
Where do we stand?
REID
Medical's ready.
The Communications Aide with headphones moves up to them.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
They're in the Sterilization
Corridor --
83- OUT
88
89 INT. STERILIZATION CORRIDOR
Bathed in eerie ultra-violet light. The five are
passing down the corridor, in single file. All are
dressed in khaki uniforms. Grant moves ahead of Cora.
As they reach a vestibule at the end, the door swings
open automatically. Grant starts to help Cora over
the threshold.
CORA
Don't touch me. I'm sterile.
Grant grins. They move into:
90 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
A huge parquet area, composed of white octagonal modules.
In the center is the Zero Module, in red. Standing over
it is a fifty-foot craft. The angle and the distance
renders its details indeterminate. WHITE-CLAD TECHNICIANS
wearing rubber gloves are seen working about it. As the
five come into the room:
CARTER'S VOICE
(on loudspeaker)
Please board and check all your
equipment immediately.
They look up, see:
91 CARTER AND REID AT WINDOW OF CONTROL TOWER - THEIR
P.O.V.
They can be seen, high above.
92 DOWN INTO MINIATURIZATION ROOM - FROM P.O.V. CONTROL
TOWER
Carter and Reid look down at the tiny figures below as
they move toward:
93 THE PROTEUS - OVER THE ZERO MODULE
With Grant and the others, we now get the full impact
of the experimental sub at close range: sleek lines
from the intake in the nose sweep over a transparent
plastic bubble atop the structure, and then down to
taper off at the stern under which are double vents.
The sub is supported by cradles, allowing it to stand
free of the module. Plastic windows in the bow afford
the occupants a full view. A white-Clad Technician
hands Owens a small lead box.
TECHNICIAN
Here's the particle, sir.
OWENS
Everything aboard?
TECHNICIAN
All squared away, sir.
Carefully holding the lead box, Owens starts up the
ladder, followed by Duval, then Michaels. Grant waves
Cora to precede him. They reach the monk's steps
above the ladder, climb upward, then one by one dis-
appear through the hatch. Grant is the last one in.
94 INT. PROTEUS
With Grant we see the interior. There are plastic
windows in the bow. In the center is the Navigation
and Communications kiosk, which contains charts,
reports, and a wireless set. Four swivel chairs are
spaced about the kiosk. Behind it, a ladder leads
to the Conning Bubble above. Set in the rear of the
kiosk is a watertight door leading into the escape
hatch. Behind the kiosk is a Lab and Storage Section,
not visible at the moment. No power of any kind is
on -- lights or air-conditioning. The interior is
illuminated by the light coming in through the plastic
windows. Duval, Michaels and Cora instantly move to
the kiosk and busy themselves examining the charts
and reports in the numerous pigeonholes. Owens hands
the lead box to Grant.
OWENS
Hold this...
Grant takes the lead box. Owens removes a crank from
the tool box, inserts it into a hole in a circular
trap door which reads:
DANGERATOMIC FUEL
Owens turns the crank. The lid of the trap door opens.
A hollow cradle comes up. Owens then opens the lead
box by undoing two butterfly screws. He removes the
Seed Cage from within the box.
GRANT
(not relishing thought)
Atomic fuel?
OWENS
Nothing you could see with the
naked eye. But there's a micro-
scopic radio-active particle
inside.
He puts the Seed Cage on the cradle and lowers it back
beneath the floor, by reversing the crank. During the
above:
GRANT
If it's no military secret, how can
a sub run on a microscopic particle?
OWENS
They can't reduce nuclear fuel.
But once the Reactor's Miniaturized
-- along with the submarine -- a
microscopic particle should emit
enough energy to activate it.
GRANT
That's cutting it mighty close --
for a perfect fit.
OWENS
It should work -- theoretically.
If it doesn't, the mission's off.
The craft's nuclear-powered.
Except for your wireless.
The lid of the trap door is now level with the floor.
Owens removes the crank, and taking the lead box from
Grant, he puts both back into the tool box during:
GRANT
(looking about;
admiringly)
All in all, quite a canoe...
OWENS
Designed for Piscatorial Research
-- the Spawning Habits of Deep Sea
Fish.
GRANT
Remind me to ask you about the love
life of an octopus.
He moves to the wireless, sees Cora smile as she goes
through the aft door. Grant begins tapping out a
message.
95- OUT
96
97 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A WIRELESS TECHNICIAN is writing down the message heard
coming in. He tears it off his pad, hands it to the
Communications Aide, who takes it to Carter.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Test message from the Proteus, sir.
(reading)
'Miss Peterson has smiled.'
REID
That's an auspicious sign.
CARTER
Confirm receiving.
98 INT. PROTEUS
Grant is at the wireless, logging the incoming message.
In the meantime, Owens finishes battening down the
entrance hatch. Duval is studying medical reports,
Michaels is spreading out the first of the Navigation
Charts, a very detailed map of the Vascular System of
the Neck and Head. As Owens crosses on the way to the
ladder leading to the Bubble:
MICHAELS
Captain, how will you be able to
follow my charts --
(of Bubble)
-- from up there?
OWENS
On the Repeater.
Michaels looks at him blankly. Owens flips a button up
and down of a hooded device which is trained on the chart
area. The small screen remains blank.
OWENS
Once the power's on, we'll be in
direct touch. Come, I'll show you.
Michaels moves with him to the ladder leading to the
Bubble. Owens stops, waves him to continue. Michaels
goes up the ladder.
A-98 INT. CONNING BUBBLE
An ultra-sophisticated set of controls, consisting of
a push-button panel and an airplane-like steering wheel.
The plastic affords a 360 degree view of the Miniaturi-
zation Room. There is room for only one person. Owens
remains on the ladder, so that only his head is within
the Bubble. Owens points to the identical Repeater on
the Panel.
OWENS
That's it...
MICHAELS
(of controls;
ironically)
Looks simple to operate.
He sits down in the single seat.
B-98 INT. PROTEUS
Grant is moving aft. With him we hear:
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble; with
pride)
It actually is, although the controls
are highly sophisticated. There's a
button for everything --
Grant enters:
99 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
Originally designed for marine research, it still shows
some of its pre-adaptation structure: there is a series
of glass-fronted compartments, now labeled ANTIBIOTICS,
ANTI-COAGULANTS, COAGULANTS, MED OXY, etc. A wide
counter runs the length of the compartment on one side,
suitable for working on specimens. A Ruby Laser sits
on the counter at the end, its plastic cover removed
and to the side. At the other is a piece of metal on
a metal base. As Grant enters, he sees Cora working
with a set of very small tools, making minute adjust-
ments on the laser.
GRANT
Bet you're pretty handy around the
house... Can you cook?
CORA
(indicating OKY
containers)
We're pushing oxygen today.
GRANT
I'll take some Laughing Gas, ma'am.
CORA
(surprised)
You sound as if you're not looking
forward to it.
GRANT
Well, it's not exactly a pleasure
cruise.
CORA
I think it's the most exciting --
(with awe)
We're going to see things no one
ever saw before. The actual physical
process of Life itself -- not something
under a microscope... Just think of
it --
GRANT
That's the trouble. I am. Being
shrunk...
CORA
You may learn to like it.
She has finished adjusting the laser. She now lifts
Grant's hand away from the metal disc.
CORA
Excuse me...
She presses a button on the laser. With startling
suddenness, a thin pencil of light shoots out, cutting
a hole through the metal instantaneously. Had
Grant's hand remained, the beam would have gone right
through it.
GRANT
For a nice young lady, you play with
the damndest toys, Miss Peterson...
She adjusts the intensity and thickness of the laser
beam, each new one cutting different size holes through
the metal during:
CORA
(with smile)
That'll teach you where to keep
your hand.
GRANT
Now I know...
As she drills metal through again:
GRANT
That could be quite a lethal
weapon... It could kill, not cure.
CORA
Not in the hands of a great surgeon
like Dr. Duval. The beam of this
laser can be regulated to one
millionth of a millimeter.
GRANT
I understand you've been Dr. Duval's
Assistant for quite some time... He
must've snatched you out of the cradle.
CORA
I've been with him since I got out
of school. He brought me into the
CMDF, over five years ago.
GRANT
A long time, with one man.
CORA
Not working for someone like
Dr. Duval --
She breaks off, realizing she may have revealed her
feelings. She switches off the laser, averts looking
at Grant as she fits the plastic cover over it. Into
the silence, the wireless is heard as a message comes
in. Grant starts back into:
100 INT. PROTEUS
Thoughtful, listening to the wireless. Michaels is
coming down from the Bubble. As Grant reaches the
wireless, the tapping comes to an end.
GRANT
(loud enough for all)
'Prepare for Miniaturization'...
OWENS
Positions, please. And strap your-
selves in.
Grant and Duval begin putting on their safety harnesses,
which are attached to their respective seats. Cora
appears out of the aft compartment. Michaels moves
toward it, a check-list in hand. He disappears within.
In the meantime, Owens is busy tightening every lock-
screw in evidence.
101 AT THE KIOSK
Cora stops before Duval, tries to help him with the
final stages of getting into the harness.
DUVAL
It's all right -- I can manage.
She starts to leave, stops.
CORA
(with difficulty)
Doctor...
DUVAL
(busy with harness)
Yes, Cora.
CORA
I -- I want to say...
She falters as he looks at her.
DUVAL
What is it?
(anxiously)
Anything wrong?
CORA
(the moment gone)
I just wanted to thank you for
taking me along.
DUVAL
Thank you for volunteering.
She turns abruptly, gets into one of the seats and
starts putting on her harness. In the meantime,
Michaels appears from the aft compartment, checking
off a few items on the bottom of his list as he moves
quickly to the kiosk. He places the list into a
pigeonhole, sits down, quickly straps on his harness.
102 WITH OWENS
Everything battened down, he now checks Cora's harness,
then does the same with Duval's and Michaels'. All
are now sweating. Finished with Grant's harness, Owens
moves quickly up the kiosk ladder leading to:
103 INT. BUBBLE
Owens drops into the seat, and with the speed of much
practice, slips into his harness.
104 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others hear:
OWENS' VOICE
(from above, in
Bubble)
Okay, Mr. Grant. Tell them we're
ready.
As Grant begins to tap out message:
105 INT. CONTROL TOWER
The message is coming in. The Wireless Technician
writes it down, rips it off the pad and the Communica-
tions Aide reads:
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
'Proteus reports all secured.'
CARTER
(to Technician)
Miniaturizer...
A TECHNICIAN at a panel marked MIN throws a switch.
106 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
What appeared to be a solid wall at the end now slowly
starts to slide apart, gradually revealing:
107 THE MINIATURIZER
A huge, honeycombed disc, suspended from a rail run-
ning along the ceiling, begins to roll silently toward
the sub.
108 INT. PROTEUS
As Grant gets his first sight at what is going to shrink
him, he reacts quite convinced. He glances at Duval,
Michaels and Cora. They, too, are looking at the on-
coming Miniaturizer, but with none of his response.
They apparently have seen it before.
109 P.O.V. MINIATURIZATION ROOM - FROM CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are looking down at the Miniaturizer as
it rolls slowly toward the sub. When the disc is directly
over the sub, the Technician at the MIN panel throws a
switch, instantly stopping the Miniaturizer.
REID
All stations stand by...
A Technician presses a button. There is the SOUND of
a warning claxon.
110 MAIN OPS ROOM - P.O.V.
The last minute scurry, as all take their respective
places. The GRID OFFICER is seen moving up to the big
center grid map of the Arterial System with something
in hand which we can't distinguish as yet.
A-110- CUTS OF TECHNICIANS IN MAIN OPS ROOM
D-110
Now all are mobile, waiting at their machines.
E-110 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid is now before the monitors, all of which are on.
Carter turns from the window overlooking the Miniaturi-
zation Room, looks at Reid. The latter nods in silent
affirmal. Carter turns to the Communications Aide.
CARTER
Commence Miniaturization.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
(into throat mike)
Commence Miniaturization.
111 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The bottom of the Miniaturizer begins to glow with
increasing intensity. Simultaneously, the modules
beneath the sub also begin to light up with equal
intensity. Gradually, the entire sub is encased in a
blaze of incandescence.
112 INT. PROTEUS
The lack of ventilation and the tension is causing
Grant and the others to sweat profusely.
113 INT. CONNING BUBBLE
From his vantage point, Owens can see the light of the
Miniaturizer reach the peak of intensity.
114 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A light flashes on the MIN panel. With Carter we see a
grid on the Technician's Control Panel as it becomes
activated. Two blips from the co-ordinates marked MINDIMEN and MINSECS flash on. Reid remains at the
monitors, eyes on the charts which keep flashing on,
sending Benes' temperature, heartbeat, etc.
115 OUT
116 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The light is bathing the entire sub in an iridescent
glow. There is a dull hum.
117 INT. PROTEUS
With Grant we get the first subjective realization that
the sub is shrinking: the proportions of what he can
see in the Miniaturization Room are changing. He looks
about him in a moment of wonder.
118 DUVAL AND MICHAELS
From their vantage points at the kiosk tower, they can
see a little more of the outside than Grant. They
respond like scientists: with intense absorption in the
process.
119 CORA
She responds enthralled.
120 OWENS
Up in the Bubble, he gets the unlimited view -- and he
is transfixed. For now the Miniaturizer stretches far,
far up, and the honeycombed light from the Miniaturizer
disc seems as distant as stars. The walls of the room
are barely discernible in the distance.
121 BACK TO GRANT
The final subjective reaction as with him we see:
122 CONTROL TOWER - GRANT'S P.O.V.
Far, far up, the windows of the tower have merged into
a tiny ray of light.
123 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
Now with Carter we get the first objective view of the
shrinking Proteus as they watch it shrink down, down,
down in the center of the Zero Module, which we see is
laced with intersecting lines. When the sub reaches
the size of a capsule about the length of a centimeter,
Carter looks down at the grid on the Technician's
Control Panel. He sees the blips on the co-ordinates
approach closer and closer until they finally merge into
one. He looks back at:
124 OUT
125 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
The lights at the bottom of the Miniaturizer's disc go
off. The hum stops. At this distance, the sub looks
like a speck on the floor.
CARTER
Elevate Zero Module.
126 THE ZERO MODULE - MINIATURIZATION ROOM
It starts to rise from the floor with the capsule-sub.
127 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others respond as the vast parquet floor
with its maze of hexagonal lines seemingly stretching
into infinity suddenly begins dropping beneath them.
The effect is that of becoming air-borne.
128 INT. BUBBLE
With Owens we get the unobstructed view: everything is
falling far, far below. The bottom of the Miniaturizer
seems an infinite distance above.
129 THE ZERO MODULE
Still rising slowly.
130 THE ZERO MODULE - P.O.V. FROM INTERIOR CONTROL TOWER
The capsule-sub is now about four feet off the floor,
on the Module. The Zero Module comes to a stop.
131 INT. PROTEUS - ON MODULE
All are sweating more profusely, showing increasing
discomfort.
132 OUT
133 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Carter turns from the window, looks at Reid, who glances
up from viewing the monitors.
REID
Okay to proceed.
CARTER
Phase Two.
134 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
A panel slides open and a precision handling device is
rolled in by several WHITE-CLAD TECHNICIANS. A NURSE
follows, in uniform. The machine is fourteen feet
high, consists of pulleys on a tripod, which control
a vertical arm angling down from a horizontal extensor.
Two sets of mechanical fingers are on the vertical arm,
about a foot apart. Together they act as clamps. All
adjustments are controlled by various worm-gears. As
the tall tripod rolls by, on the side of the base we
see stamped: MIN PRECISION HANDLING, under the insignia
of the CMDF.
135 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others react to the first sight of the
oncoming humanbeings in relation to their own reduced
size: a button is immense, a shoe -- although far
down from their position on the Zero Module -- is long
as a city street, the heads gargantuan atop skyscraper-
tall bodies. The precision handling machine itself is
beyond recognition, owing to its vast proportions.
136 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The tripod is eased to a stop so that its vertical arm
is directly over the Proteus on the Module. A TECHNICIAN
at the gear box starts turning a worm-gear control,
which lowers the vertical arm toward the capsule-sub.
137 INT. PROTEUS
Grant reacts as huge steel fingers at the bottom of
the arm slowly slide into view. He glances at Cora
and the others. They apparently know what to expect,
but watch with the interest of scientists. The mechani-
cal fingers slowly disappear beneath the sub.
138 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The Technician maneuvers the mechanical fingers care-
fully so that they slip under the cradle of the sub,
in effect becoming its holding fork. Once the steel
fingers are in place, the Zero Module sinks below the
floor from view, while the tripod holding the Proteus
is eased back.
A-138 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A Technician presses a switch.
B-138 CYLINDRICAL AMPULE - MINIATURIZATION ROOM
A glass ampule about as tall and round as a small
silo starts coming up out of the floor on the Zero
Module. The transparent container is filled with a
clear liquid, two-thirds to the top. It rests on
an encircling cork base. The lettering at the base
reads: SALINE SOLUTION.
139 OUT
140 CYLINDRICAL AMPULE - P.0.V. PROTEUS
Grant and the others react to what appears to be
something big as an illuminating gas storage tank --
albeit filled with liquid.
141 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
With Carter we see the tripod with the Proteus brought
to a stop close to the saline solution.
142- OUT
143
144 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The Technician at the tripod moves it so that the claw
holding the Proteus is directly over the water in the
ampule.
145 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others react as they see themselves
suspended over what appears to be a huge lake far
below, bounded by cylindrical glass walls in the
distance. Reflected light bounces off the top of
the water, with iridescent effect. Suddenly they
begin to descend. Grant and the others react as they
seem to be dropping at suicidal speed toward the
water which is rushing up to meet them as if they were
in a dive-bomber. Then as the surface nears:
146 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
Within the high walls of the ampule, the capsule-sub
is deposited into the water. Despite the delicate
handling:
147 INT. PROTEUS
It 'hits' the water, jarring all within, as at a launch-
ing from drydock.
148 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The Technician now begins to maneuver the mechanical
fingers out from under the sub.
149 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others see the gigantic steel fingers
sliding past the plastic windows.
150 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The lifting fork is now disengaged from the sub, which
floats free in the ampule.
151 INT. BUBBLE
The sub is rocking none too gently on the surface of the
vast glass-enclosed 'lake.' As Owens sees the ends of
the immense prongs move past the bubble and continue
upward:
OWENS
(down toward kiosk)
We've got to submerge manually.
Grant, open Valves One and Two
on the bulkhead.
152 INT. PROTEUS
Grant slips out of his harness and moves quickly to a
butterfly valve marked ONE in the bulkhead. On the
opposite side of the sub is a duplicate valve marked
TWO. As Grant begins turning Valve One:
DUVAL
Here -- I'll get the other.
Duval gets out of his harness and moves to the second
valve. Grant watches him covertly while working at his
own valve.
A-152 MICHAELS
As he sees the fluid rising toward the bow windows, he
begins to respond with increasing fear.
153 INT. BUBBLE
Owens' attention is on the gauges in the panel before
him. They begin recording PRESSURE and DEPTH. The
surface of the saline solution begins to flood upward.
154 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and Duval at the valves, now fully open. Through
the outer windows the water appears to move upward in
relation to the sub, which continues submerging.
A-154 MICHAELS
Face sweating, his eyes reflect growing irrational
terror as he stares at the rising fluid bubbling over
the bow windows.
155 INT. BUBBLE
As the depth gauges near the 30 mark:
OWENS
Close valves.
156 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and Duval twist the valves shut. When both are
done:
GRANT
Valves closed.
OWENS'VOICE
(from Bubble)
Right. That's all for the present.
As Grant and Duval move to their seats, Michaels opens
his harness, slips out and hangs onto the bulkhead
ledge, gasping for breath.
DUVAL
Doctor, what's wrong?
MICHAELS
I can't breathe!... I've got to
get out!
DUVAL
It's too late now. We must go on.
GRANT
You'll feel better once we're
underway.
Michaels hangs on tighter to the bulkhead ledge, trying
to control himself.
MICHAELS
(gasping)
I -- I'm sorry... Claustrophia --
buried alive -- two days -- air
raid -- England... Thought I'd
gotten over it. Please -- forgive
me... I'm quite all right now...
He sinks back into his seat. Grant helps him with his
harness.
157 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
We now see the sub for the first time beneath the
surface of the saline solution: a small capsule
submerged at an even keel, about one-fourth of the way
down in the huge transparent container. The Modules
on which the ampule rests now return to floor level.
158 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
From his vantage point above, Carter can barely see the
capsule in the ampule. He glances at Reid, who looks
up from the monitors and nods.
CARTER
(to Technician)
Phase Three.
The Technician presses a button on the MINI panel,
activating the MIN grid. The two blips flash on again,
moving down the MINDIMEN and MINSECS co-ordinates.
159 OUT
160 THE MINIATURIZATION ROOM
Instantly the disc of the Miniaturizer trained on the
ampule begins to glow again. The light is reflected on
the entire surface of the saline solution. The low hum
resumes.
161 INT. PROTEUS
Again we first get the subjective view of the shrinking
process: Grant and the others see everything rushing
away into an immensity of distance. And all the time
the reflected light which has illuminated the interior
of the sub is diminishing. We see the reason:
162 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
The objective view: the ampule has shrunk way below
the Miniaturizer. Its far smaller size reflects only
a spark of light. The sub is now only a particle,
shrinking with the ampule. The Technicians and Nurse
look on, grouped at the tripod which is beyond the
range of the Miniaturizer.
A-162 EXT. PROTEUS
As the sub shrinks to invisibility, disappearing before
our eyes:
163 EXT. AMPULE AND PROTEUS
In its now fully reduced size, we see the ampule is
actually a glass cylinder about two inches long and
half-an-inch in diameter.
164 MIN GRID - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
With Carter we see the two blips merge and hold.
Instantly the lights in the Miniaturizer go off. The
hum stops. A loud CLICK is heard. All look up at:
165 CLOSEUP - ELECTRIC MINUTE RECORDER
A big 60 flashes on, and holds. (NOTE: We will see
the same kind of clock, in varying sizes, in every set,
flashing on the passage of time in minutes, from now
to the end of the picture.)
166 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
The Zero Module now begins to rise above floor level.
The ampule, on its reduced cork base, appears very
tiny from this height.
CARTER
(to Wireless Operator)
Inform Proteus they are at Full
Reduction.
The Technician taps out the Proteus' call letters.
All wait, tense, for a response, as the tapping stops.
They react, relieved, as they hear:
167 INT. PROTEUS
Grant tapping out reply. Now, for the first time, we
get the microscopic view of what all see from their
various vantage points, distorted through liquid and
the glass walls. The light is dim, all are finding it
very hard to breathe in the unventilated craft. When
the incoming message stops:
GRANT
[LINE OF DIALOGUE CUT OFF]
168 INT. BUBBLE
Owens glances at his wrist watch. Then he flips a
switch. He watches the buttons on his panel. None
light up. There is an anxious moment. Then the myriad
lights on the panel begin to glow dully. The Minute
Recorder on the panel begins to flash 59.
169 INT. PROTEUS
The lights become brighter. Cora, Duval and Michaels
react with relief. The ventilators come on, permitting
all to breathe easier.
170 INT. BUBBLE
The buttons on the panel are now aglow. Owens makes a
test: he touches a button which spins his seat, with
the control panel before him, in a complete 360 degree
turn within the Bubble.
171 INT. CONTROL TOWER
After a brief message is heard coming in:
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Proteus On-Power.
With relief, Carter turns to Reid.
CARTER
It's all yours, Don.
Reid moves from the monitors, presses a button on the
Control Section.
172 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
As the Technicians at the tripod hear:
REID'S VOICE
(over loudspeaker)
Phase Four.
The Technicians move the tripod so that the vertical
arm is brought directly over the ampule and lowered,
until the two sets of mechanical fingers clamp the
cylinder firmly. Then the ampule is raised a few inches
from its position on the module. The reduced cork base
still encases the bottom. The Nurse and a Technician
move to the ampule. He holds a small instrument case.
173 AT AMPULE
When they reach the clamped ampule, the Technician
opens the case. The Nurse takes out a plunger. Very
carefully, she begins to insert it into the top of the
ampule without disturbing the liquid. She then gently
pulls away the cork remaining at the base of
the ampule, revealing a small opening in the center.
But owing to the pressure above, the liquid does not
run out. She takes a needle out of the case and
carefully fits it into the nipple. We now see the
ampule is actually a hypodermic syringe.
174 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
Ried and Carter watch as the tripod is carefully wheeled
across the room.
175 THE HYPODERMIC NEEDLE - MOVING SHOT
The saline solution in the cylinder is sloshing slightly,
despite the great care of those moving it.
176 INT. PROTEUS
The sub is being rocked, causing everyone to hold on
for support.
177 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is trying to keep an even keel with his controls,
now in full operation.
178 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
As two big doors slide open for the tripod to pass
through:
179 EXTREME CLOSEUP - RADIAL LINES
What appears to be a myriad number of radial lines
crossing each other to form tiny squares over a domed
surface is revealed to be:
180 BENES' HEAD
Now shaved clean, the head is grid-marked for Stereo-
encephalatomic measurements. In the background, the
tripod is seen being wheeled in.
181 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Moving with the hypodermic needle clamped in the tripod,
we now get the full impact of the set: the floor is
marked off for True North and South, with latitudinal
and longitudinal lines. The modern operating table is
set so that Benes' head corresponds with the exact
position of the Arterial Head on the big grid map in
the Main Ops Room. Benes is lying under a thermal
blanket, covered up to the collarbone. Thin rubber
pipes lead out from the blanket to the Central Thermal
Unit under the operating table, out of the way of
everyone. A TEAM OF GAUZE-MASKED SURGEONS AND
ASSISTANTS stand grouped around the unconscious patient.
In a semi-circle at the head of the bed, beyond the
head, is a series of SMALL TRACKING DEVICES resembling
radio-telescopes. They are remotely controlled. The
Minute Recorder, in a prominent position, now changes
from 59 to 58.
182 INT. OPERATING ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are looking on. The Communications Aide
stands at his side. They see the clamped hypo rolled up
to the side of Benes' head and brought to a gentle stop.
183 BENES AND HYPO
A small circle marks the exact spot of the injection.
A SURGICAL AIDE swabs the area with alcohol.
184 CLOSE SHOT - ACTIVATOR
It is brought down mechanically by use of worm-gears
on the tripod toward the plunger, engaging it.
185 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid, watching the proceedings below:
REID
(to Wireless Operator)
Contact Proteus --
186 INT. PROTEUS
Grant takes down the message as it comes in. When
message stops:
GRANT
(loud enough for
Owens in Bubble)
Stand by for injection!
Suddenly the sub begins to rock hard. All hold on.
187 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is manipulating controls, trying to keep an
even keel.
188 INT. OPERATING ROOM
The hypodermic is being angled by the precision gears
of the tripod for the exact degree of injection. When
this is accomplished:
189 BIG CLOSEUP - BENES' NECK
The point of the needle approaches the exact spot, which
we now see is marked off by a tiny cross within the
circle on the Artery.
190 TECHNICIAN AT TRIPOD
He presses the mechanical activator which sends the
needle plunging into Benes' neck O.S.
191 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Instantly a warning klaxon goes off. It keeps on for
a few seconds, then stops. Into the silence:
REID
Tracking.
A Technician flips a switch.
192 INT. TRACKING POST - ON MAIN MONITOR IN CONTROL TOWER
Four TECHNICIANS are seated before their radar screens,
which show flat electronic lines, except one. This
is picking up a blip.
A-192 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A Technician at the Control Panel throws on a switch.
Another TV screen next to the Main Monitor goes on,
revealing:
B-192 CLOSE SHOT - BLIP ON TV SCREEN
Duplicating the blip seen in the Tracking Post. We
see the blip is heading down, at an angle identical
with that of the hypo. CAMERA MOVES IN on the blip,
and keeps moving until it fills our entire screen and
becomes:
193 EXT. PROTEUS - WITHIN THE HYPO
Diving at a terrific speed, steeply angled like the
hypo, through the clear saline solution.
194 INT. PROTEUS
All hold on as if riding a roller coaster at its
steepest plunge. Suddenly all goes pitch-dark.
195 INT. BUBBLE
Only the buttons are glowing, and the Minute Recorder,
which now reads 57. Owens throws a switch. Through
the plastic windows the headlights of the sub are seen
coming on. They pierce the darkness sufficiently to
catch the side of the steel wall of the needle, which is
rushing past at a tremendous speed, giving the effect
of an enclosed channel. The beams gradually reveal:
196 HOLE OF NEEDLE - P.O.V. BUBBLE
A small aperture in the distance, barely visible.
A-196 HOLE OF NEEDLE - P.O.V. PRINCIPALS IN KIOSK
Grant and the others see the opening at the end of the
needle becoming bigger and bigger, apparently rushing
toward them with great speed.
B-196 EXT. END OF NEEDLE
It fills the screen, an immense aperture in relation to
the tiny sub which suddenly comes shooting out of it.
197- OUT
198
199 MAIN OPS ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter observe the Grid Officer, wearing head-
phones and throat mike, move up to the Arterial Map with
a tiny replica of the Proteus. He places it in the
center or the huge channel in the neck, which depicts the
Carotid Artery. The little sub is held magnetically on
the grid. The Minute Recorder now reads 56. Reid
turns from the window, moves to the Map Case, which
contains the same assortment of charts as in the sub's
kiosk. Reid takes out an OVERLAY MAP OF THE HEAD AND
NECK. He places it on a Radarscope. The blip shows it
is traveling up the Carotid Artery.
200 LONG SHOT - ESTABLISHING - PROTEUS IN ARTERY
The headbeams of the speeding sub reveal a world of
dazzling color and beauty: the Arterial Stream. The
walls of the vast amber-colored chamber are lost in
the distance. Now the screen is filled with a floating
wonderland: huge red corpuscles, whirling globules,
platelets, particles, minuscule fragments drift with the
stream, reflecting the entire spectrum of color.
201 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is slowing down the sub. He gazes in awe at:
202 ARTERIAL ELEMENTS - THROUGH BUBBLE
As the Proteus moves through the swirling conglomera-
tions, the elements are parted, flow over the sub,
bounce about it, forming new fluid galaxies in a
universe of amber. And each grouping and regrouping,
every mass and disc, though loosely linked, has a
rhythmofitsown. Thus the Corpuscular drift, the
bouncing particles, the parting and the merging achieve
a majestic choreography lyrical in quality, a fugue
of motion.
203 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and Cora, strapped in their seats, look on
enthralled at the sheer beauty of the dancing wonder-
world visible through the windows. Duval appears
equally moved. Michaels observes with more clinical
detachment.
204 INT. BUBBLE
Owens has now slowed down the sub so that it moves
slightly faster than the current, thus enabling him
to maintain maneuverability.
OWENS
You may unfasten your belts...
205 INT. PROTEUS
Grant, Cora and Duval quickly slip out of their
harnesses, move to the bow for a maximum view of the
scene. Michaels remains at the console, checking
their course on the Neck and Head chart.
A-205 EXT. PROTEUS - HEAD-ON SHOT
Approaching camera, with the three people looking out
of the bow windows in speechless wonder at what they
behold.
206 OUT
A-206 INT. PROTEUS - SHOOTING OVER THEIR BACKS
For a moment the three gaze in silent awe at the
dancing drift directly outside: nuclei are clearly
visible in the cells; variegated tiny organisms sweep
like cosmic dust through the orbits of the spinning
globules. Their first sight of the interior world,
with its beauty and rhythmic splendor has affected
them deeply. Finally breaking the silence:
DUVAL
(quietly; as he
looks on)
The Medieval Philosophers were
right... Man is the center of the
Universe... We stand in the middle
of Infinity, between Outer and
Inner Space. And there's no limit
to either.
GRANT
You mean Inner Space is endless?
DUVAL
Everything can be divided in half,
no matter how minute.
As the concept sinks in, Grant turns to look out again.
Cora has never taken her eyes off what she sees through
the bow windows.
CORA
I never...never imagined it could
be anything...like this.
GRANT
(equally awed)
I always thought it was nothing
but red.
DUVAL
Only to the naked eye.
(indicating)
Those corpuscles -- carrying oxygen
-- give the stream its color. But
the rest of the plasma's very much
like sea water. An ocean of life...
GRANT
Quite a piece of plumbing.
MICHAELS
End-to-end, a hundred thousand
miles long.
Grant reacts. Of something up ahead:
CORA
Dr. Duval -- what could those
be?
The sub is suddenly engulfed by a mass of very tiny
discs in chain-like combinations, which blot out the
rest of the stream.
DUVAL
(now the scientist)
Never saw that. Not even under
an electron-microscope.
CORA
They're much smaller than bacteria...
MICHAELS
Looks like the molecular structure
of proteins.
DUVAL
(flatly)
I don't agree. I think we ought to
stop and take a sample.
MICHAELS
That's not the purpose of this
mission.
(up at Owens)
Captain -- keep a straight course
-- until you're in the clear.
207 INT. BUBBLE
Steering by instruments, Owens remains on course, the
massed discs obstructing his view. Suddenly they float
off, revealing:
OWENS
Arterial Wall to the right!
With him we see:
208 LONG SHOT - ARTERIAL WALL
Barely visible in the spill of light, a smooth endothe-
lial wall is seen in the distance.
209 INT. PROTEUS
Michaels consults his chart, brings the co-ordinates
into place over two Arteries.
MICHAELS
(up at Bubble)
What's our speed?
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble)
Fifteen knots.
Michaels makes a rapid calculation with his slide rule.
MICHAELS
We should reach the Branching Artery
in two minutes.
He switches on the REPEATER.
210 INT. BUBBLE
The same REPEATER device is now active on the panel,
reflecting the chart on the console below, with Michaels'
navigational calibrators pointing to the intersecting
Artery.
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below)
Keep the Wall at its present distance
when you turn. That'll bring you
safely into the middle of the Branch.
211 EXT. PROTEUS - IN ARTERY
It cruises for a moment through the dazzling elements,
the Arterial Wall in the distance. Then suddenly the
sub accelerates and veers off course toward the Arterial
Wall.
212 INT. BUBBLE
Owens reacts, tries to slow down the sub and steer it
back into the middle of the channel. But the speed
increases, and the sub continues being swept toward the
Wall.
213 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others respond to the ever-increasing
speed and the nearing Wall. They turn to Michaels,
who, too, is aware of the change.
MICHAELS
Captain -- correct your course --
and speed.
214 INT. BUBBLE
Increasingly concerned as he works the controls and
glances at the gauges:
OWENS
She won't respond! We're in some
sort of current!
215 INT. PROTEUS
Duval moves to Michaels.
DUVAL
(bewildered)
But that isn't possible.
MICHAELS
Not in a sealed vessel like an
Artery.
(up at Owens)
Captain -- something must be wrong
with your controls!
OWENS'VOICE
(from Bubble)
No -- it's a current! It's too
strong -- I can't break out of it!
216 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is trying to gain control of the sub. It begins
to vibrate. Startled, Owens peers out, trying to
determine the cause, but the beams reveal nothing ahead
but an iridescent swirl of Arterial elements which
bounce back the light. The buffeting increases rapidly.
The Arterial Wall is clearly visible to the side,
getting closer.
217 INT. PROTEUS - IN BOW
Grant and Cora exchange startled looks as the membranes
of the Arterial Wall suddenly become visible in the
spill of light from the headbeams: its connective
strands arch Gothic-like, lost in the darkness of the
vaulted enclosure. The vibrations have now increased
so that all must hold onto stanchions for support.
218 DUVAL AND MICHAELS
Gripping the console for support. Through the plastic
windows to the side they can see the Arterial Wall
looming with menacing closeness. They look at each
other, unable to fathom the cause of the now-greater
vibrations.
219 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is desperately trying to avoid a head-on collision
with the Wall, but the sub won't respond to any of his
manipulations. The Wall looms closer, the buffeting is
worse.
220 INT. PROTEUS
Smashing into the Wall directly ahead seems inevitable.
Now the connective strands almost fill the windows.
Cora closes her eyes, in anticipation of the fatal
impact. And just when a collision appears inevitable,
the sub veers, narrowly missing the cable-like strands,
thick enough to support a bridge.
221 INT. BUBBLE - PARALLEL TO ARTERIAL WALL
With Owens we see the sub swept close alongside the
Wall. It is evident the craft is out of his control,
and that whatever averted the collision has nothing to
do with his attempt to steer it. The swirling mass of
particles up ahead begins to part. The vibrations
[LINE OF DESCRIPTION CUT OFF]
222 INT. PROTEUS
Grant reacts as he sees the now-visible area ahead.
GRANT
Whirlpool!... Strap yourselves in!
He grabs Cora, and against the buffeting, moves quickly
to help her toward her seat. Duval and Michaels
instantly take their seats at the console, begin getting
into their harnesses.
223 LONG SHOT - THE WHIRLPOOL - P.O.V. BUBBLE
Owens is appalled as in the distance, in the center of
the channel, he sees what appears to be an immense
liquid centrifuge rotating at great speed, the Arterial
elements within it whipped about like the contents of
a mixmaster. Now the buffeting is reaching its climax.
The sub is inexorably approaching the rim of the whirl-
pool, with Owens desperately trying to steer away from
it.
224 INT. PROTEUS
Duval and Michaels are in their harnesses.
225 GRANT AND CORA
Slowed up by the intense buffeting, Grant is now help-
ing Cora into her seat. But before he can assist her
into the harness, the sub is caught in the whirlpool.
The instant effect is that of a Carnival Whip. The
centrifugal force flings Cora out of her seat against
the bulkhead. Grant is spun around and slammed against
the opposite part of the bulkhead, and then onto the
floor, with stunning impact.
226 DUVAL AND MICHAELS
Pinned back in their seats, unable to get out and help
as they see:
227 GRANT AND CORA
Helpless in the whiplike rotation, Cora is thrust from
the bulkhead onto the floor. Grant manages to grab a
stanchion, hold on. With his free hand he reaches out
for Cora, now prone on the floor. She extends her hand,
but a foot separates them. They desperately reach out
to each other as the centrifugal force pulls them
farther and farther apart... Grant takes the only pos-
sible chance or reaching her: he lets go of the stanchion,
which sends him slamming against the base of the seat.
He grips the leg of the seat with one hand and grabs
Cora's waist with the other, just in time to prevent
her from again being flung against the bulkhead. She
holds onto him with all her strength. Grant strains
to maintain his grip on the leg of the seat with his
free hand, which in effect holds them both against the
centrifugal whipping.
228 INT. BUBBLE - TO INCLUDE WHIRLPOOL
Owens, too, is thrust back in his seat, powerless to
move. The sub is completely at the mercy of the whirl-
pool. A gauge on the panel is registering in circles.
229 EXT. PROTEUS IN WHIRLPOOL - LONG SHOT
Rotating at great speed, a tiny piece of flotsam caught
in a cataclysmic force which is inexorably spinning it
toward the vortex.
230 INT. SUB - CUTS OF PRINCIPALS
Reacting to the ROAR of the massive turbulence and the
whirling stream, which is seen through the windows. The
centrifugal force keeps them pinned to their positions,
with Grant holding onto Cora as before.
231 EXT. PROTEUS - NEARING VORTEX
It is whipped around and down in the final circle --
and disappears through the rapidly rotating center...
232 INT. PROTEUS
The steeply angled dive causes greater strain on Grant
as he keeps his grip on Cora. Duval and Michaels are
now thrust forward as if they were in a gondola of a
shoot-the-shoots making its steepest descent.
233 INT. BUBBLE
In a similarly forward-tilted position, with Owens we
see the stream whipping by in a seemingly endless drop.
And then ahead there suddenly appears:
234 LONG SHOT - FISSURE IN ARTERIAL WALL - P.O.V. BUBBLE
An immense crack through which some red corpuscles are
streaming in an eddy.
235 INT. PROTEUS
From their prone positions on the floor, Grant and Cora
react to the huge fissure looming through the windows.
Duval and Michaels exchange looks, suddenly realizing
what it signifies. Now the immense crack is directly
ahead.
236 EXT. PROTEUS - FISSURE FROM WITHIN VEIN
As the tiny sub is swept out into the stream, where the
blue corpuscles are. Through the crack, a stream of
red corpuscles are whipping by on the other side. The
angle of the dive now becomes less oblique.
237 INT. BUBBLE
The sub is caught in a less turbulent current, which
results in its gradually losing its angle and speed,
permitting Owens to steer it away from the center toward
a more placid area.
238 INT. PROTEUS
The sub is now level, moving much slower. Exhausted
from the ordeal, Grant sees it is safe to let go of
Cora. He helps her rise. She stares dazed at the
bluish stream. Duval and Michaels, equally spent,
begin to get out of their harnesses.
A-238 EXTREME CLOSE SHOT - BENES' NECK
PAN over to the Miniature Tracking Devices.
B-238 TWO RADAR SCREENS - INT. TRACKING POST - MAIN OPS ROOM
The blip goes from one machine to the other, where it
doesn't belong. The Tracking Technician reacts,
instantly presses a button.
239 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A warning buzz from a TV Monitor. Reid and Carter
respond to the SOUND. The Communications Aide comes
over to them.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Proteus Off Course, sir. They've
picked up a blip in Quadrant 23,
Level B.
Reid moves quickly to the window overlooking the Main
Operations Room, followed by Carter.
240 OUT
241 MAIN OPS ROOM - P.O.V. CONTROL TOWER
Both see the Grid Officer below move the replica of
the sub from the Carotid Artery to another channel
near it within a quadrant marked 23. The channel is
outlined in blue.
REID
(jolted)
They've crossed over into the
Jugular Vein!
CARTER
That can't be -- there's no direct
connection between the two --
REID
Normally not. Unless it's an Arterio-
Venous Fistula --
242 INT. PROTEUS
Grant, Cora and Duval are grouped around Michaels at
the chart. In the distance, the endothelial walls of
the Jugular Vein are vaguely visible.
GRANT
(blankly)
A what?
MICHAELS
A forced joining of an Artery and
Vein. Must've happened when Benes
was hurt.
DUVAL
Yes, a fistula too small to show up
on the X-rays.
CORA
But big enough for us...
In the stream outside, the bluish corpuscles are
increasing in number.
MICHAELS
(up at Bubble)
Captain -- head back into the Artery.
243 INT. BUBBLE
As if it were a suicidal order:
OWENS
(brooking no argument)
We could never fight that current --
it's physically impossible.
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below)
Then don't drift down further.
OWENS
I'll do what I can.
As he manipulates the controls:
244 INT. PROTEUS
GRANT
If we can't go back, is there an
alternate route?
MICHAELS
Yes... We can go forward on this
course, but it means going directly
through the Heart.
245 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is appalled as he sees the route being traced on
the Repeater, down the Jugular Vein toward the Heart.
Before it can go any further:
OWENS
(alarmed)
We can't do that! We decided in
the Briefing -- the craft could
never stand the turbulence!
246 INT. PROTEUS
Michaels looks up from the chart, to the others.
MICHAELS
Yes, it would be a hundred times
worse than the whirlpool.
The others respond with grim realization of what it
portends.
GRANT
That's just dandy. We can't go
forward -- and we can't go back.
MICHAELS
I'm afraid there's only one thing
we can do. Call off the mission.
CORA
(emotionally)
Doctor...you can't mean that! Not
when we've come this far. And if
we give up, there'll be no way of
saving Mr. Benes --
DUVAL
Dr. Michaels is right. We have no
choice.
MICHAELS
(to Grant)
Tell them to take us out.
GRANT
If there's any chance --
MICHAELS
(an order)
Request removal, Mr. Grant.
As Grant moves to the wireless:
247 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Carter and Reid are looking down into the MAIN OPS ROOM
at the replica of the Proteus. It is in the same
position as last seen in the Jugular Vein on the big
grid.
REID
But we have no choice! We've got
to take them out!
CARTER
(adamantly)
No...
He turns away from the window as a message is heard
coming in. With seeming unawareness of the incoming
message, Carter looks at the Minute Recorder. It is
flashing 51.
CARTER
We still have fifty-one minutes.
Leave them in.
REID
But it's hopeless! They can't go
back and they can't go on. I tell
you there's nothing else we can do
but remove them!
CARTER
(the final word)
Not until the very last second. We
must think of something... Something
to save the situation.
The incoming message stops. The Communications Aide
takes it from the Wireless Technician.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
(reading)
Proteus reports trapped in Venous
System. Requests removal, sir.
REID
Well, there it is... What do I tell
them, General?
Carter turns his back on him, moves to the window,
stands looking down on the OPERATING ROOM. The scene
below is almost a tableau, except for the moving
Miniature Tracking Devices. The Surgical Team around
the table stands watching, waiting. Benes lies
motionless. Reid joins Carter. As they both look
down at the patient, whose only chance of life is now
in their hands:
CARTER
(finally)
Doctor...without killing him -- how
long could we stop his heart?
REID
The less time, the better.
CARTER
I know that. But what's the maximum?
REID
In his comatose state...and every-
thing slowed down...no more than
sixty seconds.
Carter takes out a slide rule.
CARTER
(as he figures)
At top speed...and adjusting
distance for Degree of Miniaturi-
zation --
(getting answer)
The sub should get through the
Heart in fifty-seven seconds.
REID
That would give us only three
seconds to revive him...
CARTER
What are the problems in stopping
the Heart?
REID
Nothing -- compared to starting it
up again.
From the window, Carter can see the big Minute Recorder
in the Operating Room flashing from 51 to 50.
CARTER
We're wasting time, Colonel. Let's
get on with it.
The decision made, Reid takes command.
REID
(to Technician)
Heart.
Technician presses monitor button. As Carter moves to
the Communications Aide, the HEART POST flashes on the
TV screen.
REID
(to Heart Post)
CardiacRedAlert -- we're stopping
the Heart.
CARTER
(to Communications
Aide)
Message to Proteus.
Now both give their orders simultaneously. As Reid
speaks, we can see the HEART POST swing into action
on the TV screen: the big X-rays of Benes light up
on panels, a CATHODE TUBE recording his heartbeat
becomes activated. The Heart Specialist and several
Heart Technicians are seen leaving the POST. Mean-
while, the Communications Aide is taking down Carter's
message for transmission.
CARTER REID
You are heading in the An Arterio-Venous Fis-
opposite direction of tula has forced the
the Target Area, as a Proteus into the Venous
result of crossing over System. At this
into the Jugular Vein. moment, it is in the
Since you are in a Lateral Cervical Region,
closed system, you will anterior to the Cervical
have to go through the Plexus. The haemo-
Heart and proceed on dynamics of the
your mission by taking Venous System are at
an alternate route. We absolutely minimum
will stop Benes' Heart levels. It would be
for exactly sixty seconds. fatal to further decrease
Maintaining maximum speed, the rate of flow by
you will get through in Hypothermic means. In
fifty-seven seconds. order to minimize the
That will give us three turbulence, we will have
seconds to spare in which to arrest the Heart.
to revive him. Stand by The Proteus will proceed
for exact instructions -- to the entrance of the
Right Atrium --
248- OUT
250
251 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Reid's Voice is heard as the Heart Technicians rig Benes
for electric shock with a Cardio-Verter. They are
removing the top third of the Thermal Blanket. When
his chest is exposed, they apply electrodes to it.
Then the Technicians take their places at the various
Cardiac Instruments which are recording the pulse and
configuration of the heartbeat. The last is visible
on the big cathode tube of the Cardioscope, a replica
of which was seen in the Heart Post.
A-251 INT. PROTEUS
All are listening to Grant reading the end of the
message.
GRANT
-- at which point the Heart will
be stopped by electric shock.
CORA
(into the silence)
And if it should take more time to
get through --
DUVAL
(flatly)
We can't take a second more.
MICHAELS
(up at Bubble)
Captain -- head in the direction of
the flow and drift with it.
He takes out a detailed Cardiac Map.
252 INT. BUBBLE
Through the Repeater, Owens can see Michaels spread out
the Cardiac Map. He reacts to its great complexity.
OWENS
I'll never find my way through that.
MICHAELS
I'll guide you, once we're in the
Heart.
253 EXT. PROTEUS
Drifting down the Jugular Vein.
254 OUT
255 INT. MAIN OPS ROOM
The Grid Officer can be seen moving the replica of the
Proteus down the Jugular Vein.
A-255 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Carter and Reid are looking down at Benes in the
OPERATING ROOM.
256 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Benes is now rigged for electric shock. The Tracking
Devices are concentrated on his chest. The Heart
Specialist looks at the Cardioscope Screen. The big
screen registers the beat of the Heart with a cathode-
tube effect, each pulsation causing an electronic
pattern. They are very slow, regular. The Heart
Specialist nods to one of his Technicians who wears
headphones. The latter presses a button.
257- OUT
260
261 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A warning buzzer SOUNDS. The Communications Aide moves
up to Reid and Carter at the Tracking Station Monitor
and Radarscope.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Ready for Cardiac Shock...
Reid nods, acknowledging the message. As he removes
the map off the Radarscope, Carter takes out an OVERLAY
MAP OF THE HEART from the Map Case and places it on the
Radarscope. The blip is seen progressing down the
Vena Cava, leading to the entrance of the Heart.
REID
(pressing button)
Stand by.
Carter takes out a stop watch.
262 OUT
263 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others respond as they begin to hear the
SOUND of a distant boom-boom, slow and measured. It
has an ominous effect. It quickly gets louder during:
CORA
(in awe)
Listen...the Heart.
MICHAELS
Yes...slowed down a great deal.
GRANT
Sounds like heavy artillery...
MICHAELS
It lays down quite a barrage in a
lifetime. Forty million beats.
DUVAL
(quietly)
And every beat separates a man from
[LINE OF DIALOGUE CUT OFF]
264 EXT. PROTEUS - IN VENA CAVA
The SOUND of the Heart is now very loud, each measured
boom like heavy artillery in a relentless barrage.
The headbeams illuminate the long passage, the walls
of which are lost to view.
265 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and the others look on ahead, responding to the
now-deafening beat, which increases as they near the
source in the bluish channel. And then they react with
wonder as they see:
266 LONG SHOT - TRICUSPID VALVE - P.O.V. PROTEUS
In the distance, three huge membranes are billowing
open, with tendrils resembling supporting strands of
parachutes.
267 EXT. PROTEUS - IN THE ATRIUM
The parachute-like membranes are at the end of the
Atrium, the entrance of which the sub now approaches.
As the membranes blossom fully, with a lovely effect,
a big aperture is revealed. The dilation causes a big
forward surge of the stream.
268 INT. PROTEUS
All hold onto whatever is at hand as the sub is swept
onward, rocking with the tidal wave. Now in the
distance they can see:
269 LONG SHOT - TRICUSPID VALVE - P.O.V. PROTEUS
It is beginning to close, the three membranes seemingly
collapsing like three parachutes over the aperture.
The boom of the beating Heart is massive, making any
communication very difficult.
MICHAELS
(over the sound; up
at Bubble)
Captain! They'll stop it on the
next beat!
270 INT. BUBBLE
Owens at the controls, eyes on the now-closed membranes,
as he hears:
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below)
As soon as the Valve opens again,
go through and give it everything
you've got!
271 TRICUSPID VALVE - P.O.V. BUBBLE
The sub approaches the now seemingly solid wall. Owens
steers directly to where he last saw the aperture. The
closed membranes loom closer and closer, the headbeams
illuminating the delicately threaded strands. Suddenly
the three membranes start billowing open again.
272 THE CARDIOSCOPE SCREEN
The electronic pattern is recording the beat.
273 THE CARDIO-VERTER AND TECHNICIAN
He immediately presses the triggers on two electrodes
held against Benes' chest.
274 AMPERE NEEDLE ON CARDIO-VERTER
The needle swings over into the red zone.
275 THE CARDIOSCOPE SCREEN
The electronic pattern indicating the heartbeat instantly
flattens out and remains so.
276 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is throwing on the full-speed-ahead control. The
sound of the Heart has completely stopped.
277 EXT. EXHAUST JETS
A surge from the twin jets as the sub is propelled
forward with a tremendous burst of power.
278 INT. PROTEUS
All hang on against the acceleration.
279 PROTEUS IN TRICUSPID VALVE
As it sweeps through the now-motionless membranes which
wave limply in the stream, with no life of their own.
280 INT. OPERATING ROOM
A tense silence pervades. The Heart Specialist and
his Technicians concentrate on the various instruments.
The Surgical Team stands by, immobile.
281 TRACKING DEVICES
The little cones are the only things that move in the
Operating Room. As they weave back and forth:
282 STOP WATCH
Calibrated in seconds. The hand is now crossing 5.
283 INT. CONTROL TOWER
In the silence, Carter looks up from the stop watch in
hand to check with the big radar screen. Moving across
the OVERLAY MAP OF THE HEART is a blip, indicating the
sub's passage.
284 OUT
285 EXT. PROTEUS - IN RIGHT VENTRICLE
Racing through a subterranean channel partially illumi-
nated by the headbeams: a forest of tendrils, connect-
ing huge roots which are the chordae tendineae extending
into the walls. The color of the stream is predomina-
tely blue, and the overall effect is that of a weird
wonderland. As the sub surges ahead at top speed:
286 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Everyone stands rooted.
287 INT. CONTROL TOWER - HEART MAP OVERLAY ON RADAR SCREEN
The blip has crossed more than half the distance.
Carter and Reid look on, tense. The Proteus moves
further down the Ventricle. Carter glances at his
stop watch.
CARTER
Twenty-four seconds left...
including the three to revive
him.
288 OUT
289 INT. PROTEUS
Michaels is anxiously scanning the way ahead for signs
of an opening. There is none.
OWENS' VOICE
(from above)
Nineteen seconds, Doctor.
MICHAELS
The Semi-Lunar Valve should be on
our left any time now.
290 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are tensely watching the Heart Map
Overlay, as the time runs out and the sub is nearing
the end. Carter looks at the stop watch. It now
shows only fifteen seconds to go, which means they
must be out in twelve.
291 OUT
292 INT. OPERATING ROOM
The Heart Specialist is watching the blip nearing the
end of the Radar Screen, with time running out. The
Heart Technician standing before the Cardio-Verter
stands immobile, looking at the needle which is at Zero
Amperes.
293- OUT
294
295 EXT. PROTEUS - IN RIGHT VENTRICLE
Racing at top speed through the immobile forest of
tendrils.
296 INT. PROTEUS
Suddenly, off to the side, Grant sees a small opening,
half-moon in shape.
GRANT
There it is!
MICHAELS
Fasten yourselves in. There should
be a tremendous surge when the Heart
starts up again.
DUVAL
If it does...
Grant throws him a look as they quickly start to get
into their harnesses.
297 INT. BUBBLE
Steering for the opening, Owens glances at the Second
Recorder on the panel.
OWENS
Eight seconds left --
298 INT. CONTROL TOWER
On edge, Reid and Carter are watching the blip on the
OVERLAY MAP OF THE HEART on the Radarscope. If the
sub makes it, it will be exactly in 57 seconds. There
are now only six seconds left.
299 OUT
300 INT. OPERATING ROOM
All are focusing on the Radarscope. Five seconds left.
HEART SPECIALIST
Stand by.
The Technician at the Cardio-Verter is set to press the
red button.
301 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Carter and Reid hold their breath as they see:
302 STOP WATCH
It now reads 56.
303 OUT
304 OVERLAY MAP OF THE HEART
As the blip approaches the Semi-Lunar Valves, a warning
buzzer SOUNDS.
305 INT. OPERATING ROOM - RED BUTTON OF CARDIO-VERTER
A finger presses it.
306 PULSE RATE NEEDLE ON CARDIO-VERTER
It swings over, recording the first shock.
307 CARDIOSCOPE SCREEN
The cathode tube registers nothing.
308 HEART SPECIALIST AT CARDIO-VERTER
Concerned, he never takes his eyes off the Cardio-
scope Screen. He increases the pulse rate.
309 OUT
310 CARDIOSCOPE SCREEN
It still records nothing. The Heart Technicians and the
Surgical Team exchange tense looks. Again the Heart
Specialist increases the pulse rate.
311- OUT
312
313 PULSE RATE NEEDLE ON CARDIO-VERTER
As it swings over, recording a higher and higher output.
314 EXT. PROTEUS - IN RIGHT VENTRICLE
Bathed in weird St. Elmo's fire as it keeps racing
toward:
315 SEMI-LUNAR VALVE
which suddenly dilates into a huge opening. And with it
comes an immense surge of the stream from behind, and the
first boom of the Heart.
316 EXT. PROTEUS
It is swept through the Semi-Lunar Valve and into:
317 ORIFICE OF PULMONARY ARTERY - SHOOTING TOWARD SEMI-LUNAR
VALVE
Out of which the Proteus is thrust on a great tidal wave
of the bluish stream.
318 INT. OPERATING ROOM - CARDIOSCOPE
The electronic pattern is on full -- a leap of life.
The Heart Specialist and the others react with relief
as now the EKG and the other instruments begin record-
ing Benes' return from the dead.
319 OUT
320 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are at the window overlooking the
OPERATING ROOM.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Proteus in Quadrant 161 Level E...
They leave the window and walk over to the one where
they can view the MAIN OPS ROOM. They see the Grid
Officer is moving the tiny sub into the wide channel
leading to the Lungs.
CARTER
They're in the Pulmonary Artery.
REID
They'll make up some time, once
they get through that and reach
the Pleural Cavity.
(to Technician)
Respiration Post...
On the monitor next to Reid, a Technician flashes on the
INTERIOR OF THE RESPIRATION POST. The calibrated charts
marked INHALATION and EXHALATION indicate the return to
breathing.
REID
What's his rate, Jack?
LUNG SPECIALIST
(over TV)
Back to six per minute.
Reid reaches out, knocks a cup of coffee off the Central
Control Section, spilling it on his trousers.
REID
Damn. And I just had them cleaned.
321- OUT
322
323 EXT. PROTEUS - IN PULMONARY ARTERY
It is now flowing down to its normal speed. Through the
smooth endothelial walls, we see the outlines of what
appears to be a maze of mammoth conduits arching above
and beneath the channel through which the sub is pro-
ceeding. Smaller conduits divide and subdivide from
the circular immensity, to be lost in the distance. The
effect is that of a multi-level series of Over and
Underpasses.
324 INT. PROTEUS
All are out of their harnesses. Grant, Duval and Cora
are at the bow windows, looking out. Michaels is at
the console, plotting their position on a detailed Map
of the Lungs.
GRANT
I'd hate to get lost on that
Freeway...
DUVAL
They all lead to the same place --
the Lungs.
325 INT. BUBBLE
In the light of the headbeams, Owens can see the Walls
becoming increasingly narrow and more transparent. He
glances at his Repeater, sees the Lung Chart reflected,
with the co-ordinates pinpointing their position.
OWENS
Doctor -- the channel's getting
awful narrow.
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below)
We're entering a Capillary. Remain
in the middle.
OWENS
(fascinated)
The Wall's transparent...
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below)
It's less than one ten-thousandth
of an inch thick. And porous.
326 INT. PROTEUS - AT WINDOW
Grant reacts as he sees a peculiar phenomenon: the big
bluish corpuscles which stream past the submarine are
turning bright red the instant they impinge against the
Capillary Wall. They keep moving on, in a constant
flow, taking on their new color during:
GRANT
(amazed)
Look at that...they're changing
color...
CORA
(thrilled)
Doctor -- is it possible? That
we're seeing it happen before our
eyes?
DUVAL
(quietly)
Yes, Cora... We're the very first
to see the living process.
They both look out, too deeply moved to speak. After
a moment:
GRANT
Mind letting me in on what's going
on out there?
DUVAL
A simple exchange, Mr. Grant.
Corpuscles releasing carbon dioxide
-- the moment they touch the Wall
of the Lung -- in return for oxygen
coming through from the other side.
GRANT
Don't tell me they're refueling...
DUVAL
(almost in a reverie)
Oxygenation...
Cora turns to look at him, feeling close in this shared
moment. Grant, too, is moved by Duval's manner.
Michaels glances up from the Lung Map.
DUVAL
(still gazing out)
We've known it exists -- even
though we never saw it...like the
structure of the Atom... But to
actually behold one of the
miracles of the Universe -- the
engineering of the Cycle of a
Breath...
He is too moved to continue.
MICHAELS
(into the silence)
Nothing miraculous about it.
Just an interchange of gases.
The end product of five hundred
million years of Evolution.
DUVAL
You can't believe all that's
accidental? That there isn't a
Creative Intelligence at work --
Before Michaels can answer, they hear a warning buzzer
SOUND in the Bubble above.
327 INT. BUBBLE
The buzzer is going while a red light is flashing on
the panel. Owens looks startled at:
328 PRESSURE GAUGE ON PANEL
The indicator is dropping rapidly toward a red horizon-
tal line delineating the danger level. Owens flicks
the button off and on rapidly, as if testing the mechan-
ism, but the indicator keeps dropping. He shuts off
the buzzer.
OWENS
(imperatively)
Grant.
329 INT. PROTEUS
All look up toward the Bubble, at the urgency of his
tone. Grant moves from the bow toward the console
during:
GRANT
What is it, Skipper?
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble)
We're losing pressure in the
Flotation Tanks. Check the Manual,
right over there.
Grant can see him pointing to the Manual Control
Section at the rear of the kiosk.
GRANT
Right.
He moves quickly to:
330 MANUAL CONTROL SECTION
Over a series of controls are numerous gauges. The
indicators marked TANK RT and TANK LT show the left
tank is rapidly losing pressure.
GRANT
(up at Bubble)
The left tank's losing pressure.
331 INT. BUBBLE
Owens presses a button and swivels around. With him
we see:
332 P.O.V. - EXT. STERN OF PROTEUS
A stream of large air bubbles is pouring out behind
them.
333 INT. BUBBLE
Startled, Owens presses the button which swivels him
back.
OWENS
Grant! Get up here, quick!
He starts getting out of his harness.
334 INT. PROTEUS
As Grant moves toward the Bubble, he passes Duval and
Cora, who are now looking toward the stern.
CORA
(with apprehension)
Air bubbles!... Doctor --
DUVAL
No danger of an embolism. At our
reduced scale, they're much too
minute to prove fatal to Benes.
335 INT. BUBBLE
As Grant appears, Owens is slipping out of his harness.
OWENS
There's a short in the valve.
Take over.
(of controls)
Steers like an airplane.
Grant nods as he gets into the seat. Owens starts
quickly down the kiosk, leaving Grant at the controls.
336 INT. PROTEUS
Cora and Duval, at the window, watch anxiously as Owens
moves to the Manual Control Panel. Michaels remains at
the console, also deeply concerned. Owens opens the
Circuit Panel, revealing a maze of wires and circuit
breakers. Only someone with an intimate knowledge of
the sub could possibly find the right one. Owens does
quickly. He trips a switch, shuts the panel. He
turns, sees their anxious looks.
OWENS
Well, that takes care of the valve.
It was probably caused by that elec-
tric shock.
MICHAELS
(to Owens)
Was there any damage?
OWENS
Not to the valve. But we've lost
too much air to make it the rest of
the way.
DUVAL
What do you propose we do, Captain?
OWENS
Nothing we can do. We must have
full tanks to continue.
He starts up toward the Bubble, leaving the three
staring at each other in consternation.
337- OUT
338
339 INT. BUBBLE
As Grant slips out of the seat and Owens resumes at the
controls:
GRANT
Any reserve air?
OWENS
Enough to breathe, but that's all.
Grant starts down.
340 INT. PROTEUS
He steps into the cabin in time to hear:
DUVAL
(ironically)
Just a few cells away from a vast
air chamber -- one of the countless
Alvioli of the Lung -- and we can't
get enough to fill a microscopic
tank.
GRANT
Maybe we can...
(as they look at
him in bewilder-
ment)
Skipper, is there a snorkel on this
sub?
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble)
Yes, there is.
GRANT
(to Michaels and
Duval)
Could I run a tube through that
Wall, without harming Benes?
MICHAELS
At this size, I would certainly
think so.
GRANT
If those Corpuscles can take on
air, no reason why we can't.
(to Duval)
All we have to do is hook up the
snorkel to that air chamber you
were talking about, and when Benes
inhales, there should be plenty of
pressure to force the oxygen into
the tank.
(up at Owens)
How's that sound to you, Skipper?
341 INT. BUBBLE
As Owens considers the possibility:
OWENS
It's a dangerous procedure. If I
miss the timing, we could explode
the tanks... But I'm willing to try
it.
342 INT. PROTEUS
MICHAELS
Yes, by all means. We must try
it.
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble)
It'll be safer if everybody leaves
the sub.
Grant moves to the aft compartment, opens the door,
goes into:
343 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
As he moves to compartment containing the Underwater
Gear, he is jolted by something he sees o.s.
344 LASER OVER WORKING COUNTER
It is swinging loose on one hook, its plastic cover off.
345 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
Grant takes a step toward it, stops.
GRANT
Cora!
After a moment, she appears. She follows his look
toward the laser, reacts aghast.
GRANT
Looks like you didn't batten it
down too well.
CORA
But I did. I'm positive!
Duval and Michaels appear in the doorway in time to
hear:
GRANT
Then how come it worked loose?
CORA
I have no idea.
DUVAL
Cora, is something wrong with the
laser?
CORA
(distraught)
I don't know yet, Doctor. And I
won't know until I test it.
GRANT
That'll have to wait until after
we're refueled.
As he takes out the Underwater Gear and passes it to
the three:
CORA
(righting laser)
I can't imagine how it possibly
could have come loose. I
distinctly recall fastening it
with all four bolts --
MICHAELS
It must have been jarred loose
during the whirlpool.
Grant and Michaels exchange looks, as if neither are
satisfied with the explanation.
GRANT
(of gear)
Well, let's get into these as
quickly as possible.
He leads the way out. Michaels and Duval follow. Left
alone, Cora starts to unzip her jumper, revealing she
is wearing her swim suit beneath. Her eyes remain on
the laser, now her prime source of anxiety...
A-345 INT. MAIN OPS ROOM
Starting on the grid map, we see the sub in the channel
of the Pulmonary Artery. CAMERA then TILTS DOWN to the
Radarscope, where the blip is blinking on and off in one
place, without moving.
346 INT. CONTROL TOWER
On the monitor at the Map Table, we see the INTERIOR
OF THE TRACKING POST, where the same blip is in the
identical stationary position on the Radarscreen. PULL
BACK to include Reid staring at the blip on the monitor.
Carter is pacing on the other side of the table.
REID
They've stopped -- on the outer
limits of the Right Lung...
Carter looks at the Minute Recorder. It reads 42.
CARTER
Another delay... With only forty-
two minutes left.
REID
It'll be close -- but there's
still a margin of safety.
CARTER
Let's find what the devil's holding
them up!
(to Wireless
Technician)
Contact the Proteus!
As the message is heard being tapped out:
REID
(glancing at
Monitors; none
are on)
It must be some kind of mechanical
difficulty.
The tapping stops. As they wait for an answer, Carter
pours a stream of sugar into his coffee.
REID
I told you to cut down on the
sugar.
CARTER
I can't help it. I'm just weak,
I guess.
347- OUT
349
350 INT. PROTEUS - AT DOOR OF ESCAPE HATCH
All have stepped out of their jumpers and are now
revealed in their swim suits except Owens, who remains
in the Bubble. The suits are form-fitting, antiseptic-
looking, with a Breather Pack strapped to the back.
Duval is tightening Cora's pack. Grant is checking
Michaels' pack. The latter looks in rear at the small
hatch, visible through the open door. The wireless
starts tapping again.
CORA
(of tapping wireless)
Shouldn't you answer that?
GRANT
(putting on swim
mask)
Not now. We need air, not greetings!
He motions Michaels to precede him into the hatch.
Face reflecting his irrational fear, Michaels puts his
swim mask over his fear. But he freezes at the door,
unable to step into the small hatch. Grant and Duval
exchange looks.
GRANT
Let's go, Doctor.
Michaels forces himself into the Escape Hatch. Grant
follows, closing the door.
351 INT. ESCAPE HATCH
There is only space for the two. Michaels cowers
against the wall, palms pressed against the metal,
fighting against another seizure of his phobia. Grant
opens a valve. Liquid starts pouring into the hatch
from several ports. When it is up to their chins,
Grant bends down to unlock the ventral hatch.
352 EXT. PROTEUS
Grant drops out of the hatch. Michaels follows. Grant
then closes the hatch. With Grant in the lead, they
swim toward:
353 EXT. TOP OF PROTEUS
Grant reaches the snorkel, looks toward Bubble.
354 INT. BUBBLE
Where Owens has now swiveled so that he faces the stern.
Owens sees Grant signal to proceed. Owens presses
button on SNORKEL RELEASE.
355 EXT. PROTEUS
The snorkel starts rising. When the tube is a few feet
above the sub, Grant takes the bobbing end, holds it
under one arm, and starts swimming with his free arm
toward the Capillary Wall on the left.
356 EXT. SIDE OF PROTEUS
As Grant swims by with the end of the unreeling tube,
Michaels joins him. Then Duval and Cora, who are now
coming out of the ventral hatch. All swim to the
nearby Capillary Wall. (NOTE: During the following,
their action is complicated by the big Corpuscles
flowing by in a steady stream, taking on oxygen and
bumping into them.) They reach:
357 EXT. ALVEOLAR CREVICE
It shimmers with the liquid that seems to cover it like
a door of reflecting glass. The opening is just large
enough for all to look within. They see:
358 INT. ALVEOLUS
A vast conical volcano, the upper part lost to view.
Numerous outcroppings of immense crags are visible on
all sides.
GRANT
It's full of rocks!
(NOTE: During all Swimming Sequences, we will hear the
Speaker's Voice only via the AUDIO PICKUP within the
swimming mask of the one who responds vocally.)
MICHAELS
In a way - yes. Those are impurities
imbedded in the Lung after a lifetime
of 'Civilization.' Carbon from smoke
and smog -- specks of dust --
GRANT
Well, we better get on with it.
He starts shoving the front of the snorkel through
the vertical liquid entrance. To his startled surprise,
it immediately comes flying out with great force.
Michaels and Duval grab it in time to prevent the
snorkel from snaking off down the stream.
MICHAELS
Careful! There's a tremendous air
pressure in there -- in relation to
our size!
Grant grabs hold of the front part again.
GRANT
I'll try to hold it from the other
side of the wall, while you push
from out here. Maybe that'll do it.
CORA
You can't -- it's too dangerous --
MICHAELS
Yes -- with all that pressure,
and suction within --
GRANT
There's no other way. Tie my safety
line to the sub.
DUVAL
Here, let me have it.
Grant takes out his safety line, hooks it onto his
suit. Duval starts swimming with the other end back
to the Proteus.
359 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is eyeing the pressure gauges anxiously. He
reacts as he sees:
360 EXT. PROTEUS - P.O.V. BUBBLE
With Owens we see Duval is nearing the sub, the safety
line strung out behind him.
361 EXT. PROTEUS - AT VENTRAL HATCH
Duval hooks Grant's safety line onto a ring for the
purpose, signals:
362 EXT. ALVEOLUS CREVICE
Grant acknowledges signal. The Alveolar Wall can be
seen dilating slightly.
GRANT
All right now -- push the snorkel
through as soon as I get inside.
MICHAELS
(eyes on Wall)
Walt for the lull -- between the
time he inhales and exhales.
As the dilating stops:
MICHAELS
Now!
Grant pushes quickly through the shimmering entrance.
363 INT. ALVEOLUS
He has literally transposed himself into another
element: air. There is no turbulence, no sound.
Instantly he props his feet against both sides of the
entrance. The snorkel is shoved through. As he
grabs it and holds, a breath is heard starting. Only
Grant can hear the ensuing sound.
364 CAPILLARY SIDE OF ALVEOLUS
Duval now joins Michaels and Cora. They hold against
the increasing pressure from within. Grant can be
seen straining on the other side against the enormous
wind pressure.
365 INT. BUBBLE
Owens' finger is on the button of the MASTER PRESSURE
GAUGE, waiting. The indicator is quickly swinging
toward FULL.
366 INT. ALVEOLUS
The wind is rising to gale force. Grant is holding on
with all his strength to the end of the snorkel. The
others can be seen pushing from their side, to keep the
tube from flying out.
367 MASTER PRESSURE GAUGE
As the indicator hits the FULL position:
368 AIR TANK CONTROL BUTTON
Owens' finger presses down while:
OWENS' VOICE
(o.s.)
Full!
369 INT. ALVEOLUS
In response, Grant lets go of the snorkel, which is
instantly whipped out. Buffeted by the howling wind,
he now tries to get out. But the hurricane causes
Grant to lose his balance. He falls, slammed against
the outcroppings by the force of the wind. Finally
the lull comes. Instantly, Grant starts climbing back,
hand over hand, using the rope as one would in scaling
a mountain. The crevice is still far up ahead when
suddenly a new breath starts in the upward direction.
Grant is caught in the tremendous suction of the
exhalation and is pulled toward the interior of the
Lung.
370 SAFETY CLASP ON SUB RING
The Safety Clasp breaks off at the end of the nylon.
371 EXT. ALVEOLUS CREVICE
Michaels, Duval and Cora react as the line snakes past
them through the crevice.
CORA
(horrified)
He's gone!
372 INT. ALVEOLUS
The suction sends Grant flying upward, past the crevice,
with the safety line trailing after him. The wind
whips him toward a fantastic height. Finally he hits:
373 COLUMNAR CILIA
Long stalks, with a waving motion that makes it
resemble a vast field of wheat. Grant is seen flying
through it, until he is lost from view. Then as the
wind subsides:
374 EXT. ALVEOLUS CREVICE
The three are waiting, tense.
DUVAL
(to Michaels)
What can we do?
MICHAELS
Nothing -- against all that force.
CORA
But we just can't leave him in
there! What'll happen to him?
MICHAELS
We'll know -- in the next breath...
They react as they see the Alveolar Wall starting to
dilate again, signaling the advent of another breath.
375 INT. ALVEOLUS - SHOOTING UP
The wind starts howling. And then Grant is seen at a
vast height, plummeting down. Part of the way he hits
a spongy area, bounces, is caught up again by the
blasting wind, hits another spongy section, with a big
outcropping of "rock."
376 EXT. OUTCROPPING
Fighting the gale, he manages to snake his safety line
around the big rock. As he hangs on, he sees:
377 P.O.V. - PRINCIPALS AND SUB - THROUGH CREVICE
Not too far above, with rocks between.
378 GRANT
He waits it out until the howling tornado subsides.
Then in the lull, he releases himself quickly and
clambers toward the opening. He thrusts himself
through the crevice, just as another breath begins.
379 EXT. ALVEOLUS CREVICE
The others grab him, pull him through all the way
before he can be sucked back.
380 EXT. CAPILLARY WALL - P.O.V. BUBBLE
Owens is relieved to see the four start swimming back
to the sub.
381 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Carter is pacing in the heavy silence. Reid is watch-
ing the monitors. Carter glances at the Minute Recorder.
It flashes to 37. Suddenly the tapping starts. Tense,
they wait for the message. It is brief. As the Wireless
Operator tears it off the pad, Carter takes it.
CARTER
(reading)
'Proteus reports putting in to
refuel air. Proceeding through
the Pleural Cavity.'
(suddenly realizing)
Refuel air?
As Reid starts to remove the OVERLAY MAP OF THE HEART
from the Radarscope:
REID
Why not? They had a choice of
over a billion Alveoli...
382 LONG SHOT - PROTEUS IN PLEURAL CAVITY
The lone voyager is proceeding in a calm sea. Its
headbeams reflect a yellowish cast, which becomes
increasingly warm and sunny during the scene.
383 INT. BUBBLE
Owens glances at the Repeater. The co-ordinates show
the sub is traveling toward the apex of the Pleura, to
the north, which is bounded by an undefined area simply
marked "Lymphatic." A sense of absolute serenity seems
to pervade. Abruptly:
384 SMASHED LASER TRANSISTOR
as it is placed on the edge of an array of disassembled
parts.
385 INT. LAB SECTION - WORKBENCH
Cora is putting the tiny transistor down. Then, with a
tweezers, she takes out the last part: a hair-like
strand of wire. To Duval, who is beside her:
CORA
And a broken trigger-wire...
386 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
Grant and Michaels are standing at the doorway, reacting
to:
DUVAL
(fingering the parts)
A smashed transistor. No way to
fire the lamp... Well, that's the
end of the laser.
Grant and Michaels exchange looks.
GRANT
(to Cora)
You must carry spare parts --
CORA
Not anything built into the chassis.
(with guilt)
If it hadn't come loose --
MICHAELS
That's beside the point now.
(to Duval)
I don't see the sense of going on.
CORA
We must!
MICHAELS
With no laser --
GRANT
(to Duval)
Isn't there another surgical proce-
dure you can try?
DUVAL
No, there's no other way.
Before Michaels can answer, Grant squeezes into the
compartment, picks up the broken transistor.
GRANT
(to Cora)
If you had a transistor about this
size and power output, and a thin
enough wire --
(of laser)
-- could you piece it together?
CORA
No, it requires such absolute
precision --
GRANT
A surgeon might...
CORA
Oh yes, I'm sure Dr. Duval could.
If we had the parts.
GRANT
I've got a source. All I have to
do is tap it.
At their blank looks, he turns and moves into:
387 INT. PROTEUS
As he goes to the wireless and begins to unscrew the
panel, Michaels suddenly realizes:
MICHAELS
Grant -- wait a minute -- you're
not going to dismantle the wireless?
GRANT
Just one little transistor and a
circuit wire is all it takes.
MICHAELS
But that'll knock out our communi-
cations! We'll be cutting ourselves
off from the outside.
GRANT
They'll still be able to track us
by radar, because of the radio-
active fuel.
He moves to the panel, revealing a maze of electronic
parts.
GRANT
Well, sir? Which is it? The wire-
less, or Benes' life?
MICHAELS
(finally)
Send the following message...
A-387 OUT
388 INT. CONTROL TOWER
A LUNG OVERLAY MAP is now on the Radarscope. Reid and
Carter see the Grid Officer is moving the replica of the
Proteus into the next quadrant of the Pleural Cavity.
An incoming message is heard. The Wireless Operator
takes down the message. As the tapping stops:
CARTER
(reading)
'Cannibalizing wireless to repair
laser. This is last message.'
Reid and Carter exchange grim looks.
CARTER
Incommunicado... Now they're really
on their own.
Reid moves to the window overlooking the OPERATING ROOM.
As he looks down on Benes and the little Tracking Devices
weaving back and forth across his chest:
REID
(quietly)
We can still track them -- but that's
all we can do.
Carter joins him. As they both look down:
CARTER
Something told me I got into the
wrong end of the business.
(answering look)
Inner Space...
389 OUT
390 TINY TRANSISTOR AND STRAND OF WIRE
In the palm of Grant's hand. Cora's fingers delicately
pick up both.
CORA'S VOICE
(o.s.)
The transistor will do. But the
wire's much too thick.
391 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
Duval is picking up the original wire with the tweezers
and placing it on a contrasting surface during:
GRANT
Nothing closer.
As Cora turns to the workbench:
DUVAL
I may be able to scrape it thin
enough. Cora, get me a number
eleven scalpel.
She puts the transistor and wire down on the workbench
and moves to open a medical kit. Duval takes the wire
and places it between two small clamps on the workbench.
Cora extracts a scalpel, gives it to him. Duval swings
a magnifying glass over the strand as Cora trains a
light on the wire. Duval bends over. Peering through
the magnifying glass, he slowly begins to scrape the
strand with the scalpel.
392 GRANT AND MICHAELS
They exchange looks. Then Grant turns away.
393 INT. PROTEUS
Grant leads the way to the bow. As they look out:
GRANT
Looks like the sea, at dawn.
MICHAELS
We're safe -- long as it remains
that color...
(answering look)
We're in the Pleural Sac.
(indicating arched
dome far above)
It keeps the Lungs from rubbing
against the Wall of the Chest up
there. When those membranes become
inflamed, we wind up with Pleurisy
-- and a wracking cough.
GRANT
Cough? If he can kick up a storm
by just breathing --
MICHAELS
His Pleura's in fine condition. It
should be clear sailing through this
area.
GRANT
Let's hope... So far, somebody's
tried to sabotage this mission twice.
He glances back in the direction of Duval. Both drop
their voices so that Duval and Cora can't hear:
MICHAELS
(startled)
Sabotage? I don't understand...
GRANT
I saw the laser just before we
started. It was fastened down
securely. You don't suppose what
happened was an 'accident?' Any
more than my safety line snapping
after it was tied off to the sub?
MICHAELS
You have no right to blame Duval --
GRANT
That line was tampered with...
MICHAELS
(agitated)
I -- I don't know what to say. I
know he's under a cloud, but there's
not a more dedicated man in the
entire medical profession.
GRANT
You still never know what's going on
in anyone's mind...
MICHAELS
(with finality)
I can't believe it. Whatever
happened was an accident.
GRANT
Two in a row?
MICHAELS
It's possible --
Grant looks at the Minute Recorder. It now reads 32.
GRANT
Thirty-two minutes left...
(back to Michaels)
But chances are we won't have to
wait that long for try number
three.
OWENS' VOICE
(from above)
Look at those Walls up ahead!
Grant and Michaels look out through the bow. Grant
reacts amazed as he sees:
394 ENTRANCE OF LYMPHATIC DUCT - P.O.V. BOW
A huge tube-like structure looms up. The Walls are
transparent, composed of a single layer of squamous
cells with round nuclei. Since the color of the stream
is now predominately yellow, the globs create the
impression of innumerable:
GRANT'S VOICE
(o.s.)
Poachedeggs?!
395 INT. BOW
As Michaels moves to the console:
MICHAELS
(with smile)
We're entering the Lymphatic
System. Those are nuclei of
cells, lining a Duct.
GRANT
(puzzled)
I always had an idea there was only
one System. The Circulatory.
MICHAELS
The Lymphatic System drains off
excess fluid from the Tissues.
Without it, we'd all swell up like
balloons.
He reaches the console, begins to take out a new chart.
396 INT. BUBBLE
The new chart suddenly becomes visible on the Repeater
as it is spread out below. Owens reacts to the labyrinth.
OWENS
Looks like quite a Navigation
problem...
The co-ordinates are seen being moved to indicate the
sub is passing through a Lymphatic Duct on its way to
the first Node, which is followed by a series of others,
strung out like sausage links.
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below)
Only until we get through the Nodes
-- the Lymphatic Glands. Follow
your present compass heading.
397 EXT. PROTEUS - LYMPHATIC DUCT
As it courses easily through the sunny stream, to
suddenly emerge into:
398 EXT. LYMPHATIC NODE
A startlingly different world. The headbeams reveal
what appears to be an underwater marshland: a tangle
of reticular fibers which wave with the gentle cross
currents seeping through the mesh. Weird bacterial
forms drift by, moving in groups like raiding parties.
The yellowish light of the Lymphatic Stream still
filters through.
399 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is forced to slow down as he carefully begins to
thread his way through the tangle, trying not to brush
against the tendrils. But for all of Owens' care, the
nose of the sub breaks some fibers as it nudges through
the increasingly narrow spaces of the brambly mesh.
400 INT. PROTEUS
Grant reacts as he sees the broken fibers drift against
the bow windows, and then become momentarily entangled
around them. When the tendrils clear the windows, he
looks back to the stern.
401 FLOATING TENDRILS - P.O.V. GRANT
They are floating aft. Some adhere to the propulsion
section, trailing out so that Grant can see them.
402 INT. PROTEUS
Grant reacts, looks back and up toward Bubble.
GRANT
Skipper, you're picking up seaweed
-- or whatever it is.
MICHAELS
(reassuringly; at
chart)
Reticular fibers. We ought to be
clear of them soon.
403 EXT. LYMPHATIC NODE - P.O.V. BUBBLE
With Owens, we see the way ahead is more tangly. As
he keeps slowing down to get through safely:
OWENS
(anxiously)
I hope so, Doctor. If that stuff
clogs the vents, the engine'll
overheat --
He breaks off as a big clump of fibers is torn loose,
for all his skillful steering.
404 EXT. UNDERSIDE OF SUB
The mass of tendrils drifts down the length of the
underside. Part of the clump adheres to the ventral
hatch, another section twines around the exhaust: In
so doing, it snags on the brambles beneath.
405 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
Scalpel poised over the wire, Duval reacts as the
Proteus momentarily jars while it pulls loose. He
exchanges looks with Cora, who is holding the lamp.
406 INT. PROTEUS
Grant glances back toward the open door of the aft
compartment, realizing the danger of trying to repair
the laser now. He looks at Michaels, who is bent over
the chart.
GRANT
Doctor --
He is interrupted by a loud WHAM against the bow windows.
Startled, both look off, see:
407 EXT. LYMPHATIC NODE - BEGINNING OF BATTLE BETWEEN
BACTERIA AND ANTIBODIES - P.O.V. PRINCIPALS
Flashing reflected light from the headbeams, elongated
crystalline structures with rod-like projections which
make linkage possible, are whipping against the bow
windows where they have trapped a mass of ferocious-
looking large Bacteria. The smaller crystalline Anti-
bodies are rapidly coupling with others that speed in
to join the fray. The Bacteria fight back with their
flagella, in a death struggle.
408 VIEW OF BATTLE FROM INT. BUBBLE
Owens ducks involuntarily as the linking Antibodies and
the Bacteria slam against the Bubble in such numbers and
sizes as to make the way ahead virtually invisible. As
a result, the sub tears through a clump of fibers like
a scythe.
409 INT. PROTEUS
Duval appears in the doorway.
DUVAL
What's causing all that -- ?
He breaks off as he sees the Antibodies and Bacteria
whipping against the windows. Cora appears behind him,
gasps at the sight of the monsters locked in battle.
GRANT
Looks like somebody declared war.
MICHAELS
Just what it is. Antibodies,
destroying Bacteria -- or any
other foreign invader that
threatens the System.
410 BIG CLOSEUP - ONE ANTIBODY AND BACTERIUM
As both slam and hold against the bow windows in a
life-and-death struggle. An amazing phenomenon is
taking form: Antibodies are hooking up at the rods
to completely encase the Bacterium -- and the geometric
forms fit the antagonist perfectly.
CORA'S VOICE
(o.s.)
Look -- it's taking its exact shape!
GRANT'S VOICE
(o.s.)
Like hand-in-glove.
MICHAELS' VOICE
(o.s.)
Much closer. Like two atoms.
Now the crystalline geometric links start pressing
together with inexorable force. The Bacterium fights
back with its flagella. Then suddenly it goes limp.
As the destroyed Bacterium drifts off, another mass
of virulent monsters smashes into the windows and are
instantly embattled with a swarm of Antibodies that
come linking up. Now the SOUND of the battle can be
heard along the entire length of the sub. Meanwhile,
the sub is jarred hard, as it breaks through another
clump of entangling fibers. The sound and sight of the
mortal battle increases in intensity, as does the
forced passage during:
DUVAL
(with glance at
Minute Recorder)
We'll never get there in time, at
this rate.
GRANT
(to M1chaels)
Isn't there another route? So we
can by-pass all this?
DUVAL
Yes...
(to Michaels)
We can transfer over to the Inner
Ear, and go by way of the Endo-
lymphatic Duct.
GRANT
(to Michaels)
Then why not take it?
MICHAELS
It's infinitely more hazardous than
going this way. Once we enter the
Inner Ear, any sound in the Operating
Room will be disastrous. At our
reduced size, the vibrations inside
the Ear would have a shattering effect.
Another jar of the sub, and more smashing against the
hull and bow windows, as the battle of the Antibodies
and Bacteria reaches a climax.
GRANT
(over sound)
They're tracking us Topside. Once
they see where we're going, I'm sure
they'll take every precaution.
MICHAELS
Let's hope they realize the danger.
(up at Bubble)
Captain, I'll give you a new compass
heading.
411 BENES' SHAVED HEAD
With the radial lines in the f.g. Beyond, the Tracking
Devices are now weaving back and forth in the area of
the Neck.
A-411 INT. MAIN OPS ROOM
CAMERA on the TRACKING POST, PICKING UP the Four
Technicians before their Radarscreens. CAMERA then
TILTS UP to the big grid map. We see the Grid Officer
above, positioning the replica of the Proteus in the
Inner Ear.
412 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are looking down at the OPERATING ROOM.
They turn as the Communications Aide announces:
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Proteus turning in Quadrant 73.
Reid and Carter move to window overlooking the MAIN OPS
ROOM. They exchange relieved looks as the Grid Officer
moves the sub to the lateral quadrant, in the Neck.
REID
(with relief)
At last they're heading for the
Inner Ear...
Carter glances at the Minute Recorder. It flashes 27.
CARTER
(biting into unlit
cigar)
About time they realized they'd never
make it the other way.
Reid moves to the Control Section, presses button.
413 OUT
414 INT. OPERATING ROOM
The Surgical Team and the Technicians exchange looks as
they hear:
REID'S VOICE
(o.s.)
The Proteus is about to enter the
Inner Ear... You are not to walk,
talk, or make a sound of any kind.
(strongly)
Absolutesilence must be maintained
until they are out of the danger
area...
As all remain frozen in their positions:
A-414 TRACKING DEVICE PAN
with it to:
B-414 EXTREME CLOSE SHOT - BENES' EAR
CAMERA MOVES IN on the Ear, until it fills the screen.
415 OUT
A-415 PANEL OF PROTEUS
The red warning lights are flashing, the needle of the
TEMPERATURE GAUGE is in the danger zone. The SPEED-
OMETER is nearing zero.
B-415 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is working the controls, apparently without avail.
He glances anxiously ahead, sees:
C-415 EXT. COCHLEAR DUCT - ENDOLYMPHATIC STREAM - P.O.V.
BUBBLE
A huge clear area. In the distance, a few drifting
Antibodies. There is nothing evident that should be
giving the Proteus any difficulty.
D-415 INT. BUBBLE
As Owens looks back with grave concern to the panel,
the SPEEDOMETER needle drops to zero.
E-415 EXT. COCHLEAR DUCT - LONG SHOT
The Proteus is sinking to the bottom.
F-415 INT. PROTEUS
Duval and Cora are back in the lab Section, working
on the laser. Grant is beside Michaels at the chart.
Both look up as the Proteus touches bottom with a
slight jar.
GRANT
(up at Bubble)
What's wrong, Skipper?
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble)
What I was afraid would happen.
The stuff we passed through --
that looked like seaweed --
MICHAELS
Reticular fibers --
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble)
It clogged the intake vents. We're
not getting any propulsion.
GRANT
Well, there's only one thing to
do...
As he moves to put on his Breather Pack, Cora appears
in the doorway of the Lab Section. She looks anxiously
out of the bow windows. In the distance, several Anti-
bodies can be seen.
CORA
You're going out there? With those
Antibodies --
MICHAELS
(to Grant)
No danger of attack, as long as you
don't trigger them off by any injury
to the System.
Grant nods, steps into the Escape Hatch, closing the
door behind him. The light flashes red. Cora remains
at the bow windows, looking toward the drifting Anti-
bodies, with apprehension.
G-415 OUT
416 EXT. VENTRAL HATCH
Grant is dropping out of the opening, causing the
attached seaweed-like fibers to come loose and drift
off.
417 WITH GRANT
He swims toward the bow, reaches the propulsion intake
vents. As the clogged vents come into view:
OWENS' VOICE
(over audio)
How's it look?
GRANT
I could use a lawnmower...
418- OUT
455
A-455 INT. BUBBLE
Owens glances at the Minute Recorder.
OWENS
How long do you think it'll take?
GRANT'S VOICE
(over audio)
Quite a while.
B-455 INT. PROTEUS
Cora turns from the bow windows. The Antibodies are
still in view.
CORA
Wouldn't it be quicker if we all
helped?
MICHAELS
(with glance at
Minute Recorder)
Yes, there's no time to spare. And
those fibers can be quite tenacious.
He moves to the Escape Hatch with Cora, both strapping
on their Breather Packs. She glances at Duval, still
in the Lab Section.
DUVAL
I'd better use the time to finish
repairing the laser.
Michaels and Cora step into the Escape Hatch, adjust
their swimming masks.
456 EXT. PROTEUS - BOW
Grant is pulling the seaweed-like fibers out of the in-
take vents. He works fast at what seems an endless task.
457 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is watching the TEMPERATURE GAUGE. The needle
is still in the danger zone.
458 EXT. PROTEUS - BOW
Michaels and Cora swim up to Grant, join him in yanking
out the long clinging tendrils. All work quickly as
possible.
459 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Absolute silence. The immobile Surgical Team and
Technicians create a tableau-like effect. The forced
silence and the inactivity causes several to sweat
with tension. All are focusing on the Tracking Devices,
now weaving back and forth at Benes' Head.
460 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are at the window overlooking the
OPERATING ROOM. The Communications Aide turns to them.
They react with misgiving as they hear:
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Report no movement of the Proteus
since entering Quadrant 74, Level D.
Reid and Carter exchange grim looks, move to look down
on the MAIN OPS ROOM. They see the little Proteus is
in the quadrant of the Cochlear Duct. Carter glances
at the Minute Recorder. It now reads 24.
CARTER
Twenty-four minutes left. Maximum.
This is just what we need -- another
delay...
He sees an ant crawling along the table, in the direc-
tion of a few spilled grains of sugar. Automatically,
he starts to bring his thumb down to crush it. But
he stops just in time. Reid looks at Carter curiously
as the latter carefully picks up the ant and puts it
on the railing so it can crawl out of harm's way.
REID
(with smile)
You'll wind up a Hindu. Respect-
ing all forms of life -- however
small...
461 OUT
462 EXT. PROTEUS - BOW
Loose tendrils are flowing about the hull like drift-
ing seaweed. But the vents seem to hold an endless
amount. Grant, Cora and Michaels, working at an
exhausting pace, keep pulling out more and more clumps
of long fibers.
463 INT. BUBBLE
Eyes on the TEMPERATURE GAUGE, Owens reacts with relief
as he sees the needle beginning to swing away from the
danger zone.
464 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Nothing moves except the little Tracking Devices on
their silent bearings. But the ordeal of absolute
silence and no movement is beginning to tell on all.
Particularly:
465 SURGICAL CHIEF
An older man, corpulent, he is sweating profusely under
the strain. The headband of his Surgical Cap is wet.
Automatically, he brings his rubber-gloved hand up to
wipe the perspiration away, stops, as he glances at the
patient o.s.
466 EXT. PROTEUS
Many loose tendrils now about the hull attest to the
progress of cleaning the vents. The three keep working.
467 INT. BUBBLE
The needle of the TEMPERATURE GAUGE is now almost out
of the danger zone.
A-467 INT. MAIN OPS ROOM - SUB GRID MAP
The sub is not moving. The Minute Recorder reads 21.
B-467 INT. MAIN OPS ROOM - SHOOTING TOWARD CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are at the window, looking down into the
room.
468 OUT
469 EXT. PROTEUS
The last of the fiber clumps is now being removed.
470 SURGICAL CHIEF
Rivulets of sweat are streaming down toward the wrinkled
corners of his eyes, causing him to blink.
471 FEMALE SURGICAL AIDE
Seeing his extreme discomfort, she follows the usual
procedure of reaching for a towel on the instrument
table.
472 TOWEL
A surgical scissors is partially tucked within the folds.
473 INT. OPERATING ROOM
The scissors is not visible from the Aide's angle. As
she pulls the towel gently off the table, careful not to
make a sound:
474 SCISSORS
Dislodged from the table. CAMERA WHIPS with it toward
the floor. On the shattering impact:
475 FLASH CUT - BENES' EAR
It fills the screen, the sound reverberating o.s.
Instantly:
476 EXT. COCHLEAR DUCT
The vibrations send the Proteus flying through the clear
sea, as if struck by a cataclysmic undersea force.
(NOTE: Until the end of this sequence, the vibrations
keep on as if they have set off reverberations in end-
less echo chambers.)
477 GRANT
Flung in one direction.
478 MICHAELS
Hurled off in another direction.
479 CORA
Whipped away from all the others.
480 OWENS IN BUBBLE
Clutching the panel for support.
481 DUVAL IN LAB SECTION
Clutching the laser.
482 EXT. ORGAN OF CORTI - WITH CORA
As she is tossed toward the Cells of Hensen: a series
of tall columnar structures, non-rigid, with cuticular
plates forming a mosaic pattern.
483 CORA
She is horrified as she sees where she is heading for:
484 P.O.V. - CHASM
One wall consists of the TECTORIAL MEMBRANE, opaque,
with built-in huge fibers. The other wall: geometric
and translucent. Spaced at intervals are what appear
to be electrical conduits with four exposed strands
spanning the two walls. All the conduits are vibrating.
485 WITH CORA - DOWN THE CHASM
She is thrust over the curved edge, starts falling head
down. She narrowly misses the first connective conduit.
Then her Breather Pack snags on one of the strands of
the next conduit, which flings her partially to one side
so that her legs are caught between the other strands.
As she hangs head down, the weight of her body causing
the strands -- and herself -- to be whipped back and
forth, she is further terrified to see:
486 LONG SHOT - CHASM - CORA'S P.O.V.
All the quadruple strands are vibrating in the seemingly
bottomless abyss.
487 BACK TO CORA
As she tries to extricate herself, which causes her to
be "vibrated" with even greater intensity:
CORA
(screaming)
Help!
488 EXT. COCHLEAR DUCT
In the distance, the Proteus is being brought under
control. Michaels and Grant are in view, swimming
against the force set off by the diminishing vibra-
tions in this part of the Ear.
489 GRANT
He hears:
CORA'S VOICE
(barely audible:
over audio)
Please! Help!
Grant looks about. There is no sign of her.
490 CORA
Struggling head down, in terror, she hears:
GRANT'S VOICE
(over audio; in
distance)
Cora! Where are you?
CORA
I don't know! I think I'm caught on
some auditory fibers!
491 EXT. COCHLEAR DUCT
Michaels swims up to Grant.
GRANT
Where would that be?
As Michaels points, Grant hears:
MICHAELS' VOICE
(over audio)
Right down there.
They both swim off in the indicated direction, reach:
492 EXT. EDGE OF CHASM
Both look down. At first they don't see her. Then
Grant spots Cora. He points for Michaels' benefit.
They see:
493 CORA IN CHASM - THEIR P.O.V.
Far below, still trying to struggle loose.
494 CORA IN CHASM
As she hears:
GRANT'S VOICE
(on audio)
Okay! I can see you!
She stops struggling. But unseen by her, the vibrating
strands in which she is entangled have called forth, in
apparent response:
495 FEW ANTIBODIES - IN CHASM
Appearing from the far side, and below Cora. They start
moving toward her. More Antibodies instantly appear
from the same area.
496 EXT. EDGE OF CHASM
Grant and Michaels are swimming over the curved mosaic
cells.
497 INSIDE THE CHASM
Grant and Michaels swim down toward Cora on the strands.
Now the Antibodies become visible, gathering in
increasing numbers as they stream up toward Cora. They
are as yet unlinked, but she is unmistakably their target.
MICHAELS
(startled)
Antibodies!... Coming at Cora!
She's triggered them off!
498 OUT
499 CORA ON STRANDS
From her head-down position, she sees:
500 LONG SHOT - ANTIBODIES - CORA'S P.O.V.
Streaming upward in increasing numbers toward her.
501 GRANT AND MICHAELS - IN CHASM
GRANT
Doctor! Get back in the sub!
Quick!
Michaels starts swimming fast as he can toward the
Proteus.
502 OUT
503 EXT. CHASM - GRANT, CORA AND ANTIBODIES
He is racing to reach Cora before they do.
504 ON THE AUDITORY STRANDS - IN CHASM
From her head-down position, Cora sees vast numbers of
Antibodies, now nearer. Frantic with fear, she tries
to free herself, causing the strands to start vibrating
again, which calls forth more Antibodies to stream out
of the far side. Grant reaches her, starts working
desperately to get her loose. She tries to help as he
yanks at her Breather Pack, trying to work it off the
wires.
505 EXT. PROTEUS - COCHLEAR DUCT
Near the edge of the chasm. Duval is seen at the bow
windows, looking out anxiously.
506 INT. PROTEUS
Duval turns as the door of the Escape Hatch opens from
within and Michaels steps out. He closes the door
quickly. The light over it instantly flashes red.
DUVAL
Where are they?!
As Michaels pulls off his swimming mask, breathing hard:
MICHAELS
Below the Cells of Hensen. If those
Antibodies reach her, they'll attack
as if she were bacteria...
507 LONG SHOT - ANTIBODIES - IN CHASM - P.O.V. CORA (HEAD
DOWN)
They are beginning to link up.
508 EXT. CHASM - CORA AND GRANT
He is still trying to get her Breather Pack loose.
CORA
(frantically)
Hurry! Oh please, please!
He manages to get her pack loose, now starts pulling the
strands apart at her ankles so that she can extricate
herself. As she finally does, they execute a half-
somersault in the stream to start swimming upward.
Both get a fleeting look at:
509 LONG SHOT - ANTIBODIES - P.O.V. GRANT AND CORA
The links have now formed chains the exactlength of
Cora.
510 EXT. CHASM - GRANT AND CORA
Grant grabs her at the torso and starts to propel her
upward.
511 LONG SHOT - CHASM - ANTIBODIES AND PRINCIPALS
The long links, in vast numbers, now race after the
frantically swimming Cora and Grant.
512 EXT. EDGE OF CHASM
Grant and Cora appear, swim over the slippery edge of
the mosaic cells. She is too exhausted to keep up the
pace. Grant holds her with one arm as he keeps swimming
toward:
513 EXT. PROTEUS
Duval and Michaels can be seen at the bow windows,
looking out. Owens is visible within the Bubble,
peering out anxiously.
514 EXT. VENTRAL HATCH
The two reach it, Grant still helping Cora. They are
at the point of exhaustion. Grant reacts as he sees:
515 LIGHT OVER VENTRAL HATCH
Flashing red.
516 EXT. VENTRAL HATCH
Grant waits, hand at the wheel. Cora looks back toward
the edge of the chasm for signs of the Antibodies.
CORA
(gasping)
Open it! Open it before they get
here!
GRANT
I can't till the hatch is flooded!
At her look of fright, he turns and sees:
517 ANTIBODIES - EDGE OF CHASM - P.O.V. CORA AND GRANT
The long links catapult over the edge of the chasm like
Polaris missiles in flight, then begin to execute a turn
for a massed attack in the direction of:
518- OUT
520
521 EXT. VENTRAL HATCH
The light flashes green. Grant begins turning the wheel
quickly as he can.
522 INTERCUT ANTIBODIES
Hurtling down toward Cora, and the wheel turning.
523 EXT. VENTRAL HATCH
Just as the door drops down, the vanguard of the Anti-
bodies reaches Cora. Two coils whip transversely around
her shoulders. There is no time to tear them off.
Grant thrusts Cora through the door, then follows, with
the massed attackers streaming in after them.
524 INT. ESCAPE HATCH
Cora is clawing at the Antibodies which are coiling
around her from every direction. For the moment, Grant
can't help her as he struggles to close the door against:
525 ANTIBODIES AT VENTRAL DOOR
The crystalline links are forcing their way in, against
the pressure of the closing door. Grant struggles with
all his strength against the coiling mass. Finally he
manages to get the door closed and locked.
526 INT. ESCAPE HATCH - GRANT, CORA AND ANTIBODIES
The water level starts falling, accompanied by the hiss-
ing of air pressure. Grant and Cora try to claw at the
crystalline structures. But in the extremely narrow
confines of the chamber, there is little either can do.
Suddenly Cora's expression changes to one of horror and
pain.
CORA
(gasping)
They're tightening...
Desperately, Grant tries to get at least one coil loose,
but to no avail. The crystalline structures are now
constricting around her.
527 INT. PROTEUS
Duval and Michaels stand before the Escape Hatch, waiting
for the red light to change to green.
DUVAL
(up at Bubble)
How much longer?!
OWENS' VOICE
(from above)
Ten seconds --
DUVAL
That's too long!
He starts to twist the wheel, to open the Hatch.
528 INT. ESCAPE HATCH
The water is now down to their knees. Grant is still
pulling at one of the many links around Cora, but with-
out any effect.
CORA
(barely audible)
Please -- I -- can't -- can't
breathe...
And she is cut off as all the Antibodies lock into
place. Her mouth remains open, in the manner of some-
one being choked to death. The crystalline coils about
her body give her the appearance of a female Laocoon...
Suddenly the entrance door is thrust open behind them.
529 INT. PROTEUS
Water pours out from the Escape hatch as Grant drags
Cora out. She falls on the floor. Duval and Michaels
instantly start pulling at the Antibodies. Cora is
almost unconscious. Grant joins in the frantic effort
to free her. And then Owens, who comes bounding down
from the Bubble. All four men pull at the structures
with all their strength. And suddenly they begin to
break off, shattering into crystalline fragments. With
some coils broken, the others soon lose their lethal
adhesion. Finally Cora is free. As soon as she finds
her breath, she begins to cry hysterically. Duval bends
over, calming her.
530 INT. OPERATING ROOM
All are still immobile, sweating out the long wait.
The Female Surgical Aide who caused the scissors to drop
stands holding the towel. The scissors is still on the
floor at her feet. In the silence, she carefully
reaches out and dabs at the rivulets of sweat running
down the Head Surgeon's face. Now all are concentrating
on the:
531 TRACKING DEVICES
Moving silently back and forth across Benes' head, the
only contact with what is transpiring within.
532 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid is looking down into the OPERATING ROOM, Carter is
pouring two fresh cups of coffee. At the SOUND of a
warning buzz, both look at the TV monitor. They see the
INTERIOR OF THE TRACKING POST. The blip is moving on
the radar screen.
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Proteus proceeding toward Quadrant
75...
Reid takes the coffee which Carter extends.
REID
(relieved)
On their way again...
Carter glances at the Minute Recorder. It now reads 12.
He upends empty sugar container without looking at it.
CARTER
Twelve minutes left --
(breaks off; sees
no sugar)
Of all the time to run out of
sugar...
534 EXT. ENDOLYMPHATIC DUCT
The Proteus is speeding through the very wide passage.
535 INT. PROTEUS
Michaels is spreading out a chart of the Brain, with the
help of Duval. As the complexity comes into view, Grant
reacts. With glance at the Minute Recorder:
GRANT
Looks like quite a way to go...
MICHAELS
No, we should reach the base of
the Brain shortly. And from there,
it's not far to the site of the injury.
Suddenly, light pours in. Astonished, Grant sees:
536 HUGE OVAL MEMBRANE - THROUGH BOW WINDOWS
Semi-transparent. The immense pillars which form the
Stapes of the Inner Ear are illuminated by the light
behind it.
GRANT'S VOICE
(o.s.)
Where's that light coming from?
MICHAELS' VOICE
(o.s.)
The outside world. Filtering in
through Benes' Eardrum...
537 INT. PROTEUS
Duval bends over the chart.
DUVAL
(pointing; to
Michaels)
That puts us right here... Which
means we can head straight for the
Sub Arachnoid Cavity.
MICHAELS
Yes...
DUVAL
If we can go in past the Oculomotor
Nerve...
As both men remain bent over the chart, conferring,
Grant moves into:
538 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
Cora is lying on the cot. As Grant enters, she starts
to rise.
GRANT
No need to get up --
CORA
I feel much better now...
But she remains seated, still weak. As the light grows
brighter:
CORA
(quietly)
The outside world... I thought I'd
never see it again.
Grant stops at the laser which is fastened securely,
runs his hand along it.
CORA
(turning to Grant)
Thank you for saving my life.
GRANT
That's what they pay me for.
CORA
A great deal more than that, I
believe...
He looks up from the laser.
GRANT
Such as?
CORA
Keeping an eye on Dr. Duval...
GRANT
(into the silence)
What gives you that idea?
The light now dims back to normal, indicating they have
passed the Eardrum.
CORA
That's why you're really here.
I knew it from the start.
GRANT
As obvious as that? Our Security
people will jump for joy.
(with smile)
I suppose Duval's onto me, too?
CORA
You're not the first, but he's much
too innocent, much too involved with
his work, to realize what's going on
around him.
GRANT
Under a cloud without cause, I take
it.
CORA
Oh, no. Plenty of cause. He won't
follow the herd, or change his
convictions -- even when they're not
popular. And he believes in an
absolutely free interchange of
information between scientists of
different countries -- and these
days, there's nothing more suspicious
than that.
GRANT
Depends on which end of the telescope
you look through.
CORA
What do you mean?
GRANT
Well, if you happen to be very fond
of him -- even in love with him --
it would certainly affect your point
of view.
Before she can answer, they hear:
DUVAL'S VOICE
(o.s.)
It's out of the question.
MICHAELS' VOICE
(o.s.)
Now be reasonable!
DUVAL'S VOICE
I won't do it.
GRANT
Sounds like trouble...
The two move toward the door.
539 INT. PROTEUS
Grant and Cora silently witness:
DUVAL
It's against my better Judgment...
MICHAELS
Better Judgment?! To wait until
the actual operation -- when it may
be too late?
DUVAL
I've done all I could with the laser.
MICHAELS
All I'm asking is you test it before-
hand!
DUVAL
If it won't work, it's beyond my
power to fix it. But if it does,
there's no telling how long it will
hold up. It's a jury rig, at best,
and we'll need every second of use
we can get out of it. That's why I
don't want to put any extra strain on
the connections by running unnecessary
tests.
MICHAELS
Dr. Duvall I insist you test the
laser.
DUVAL
(angrily)
I'll do nothing of the sort! The
operation is my responsibility! I
won't do it, and that's final!
MICHAELS
(controlling himself
with difficulty)
As usual, you want everything your
way. Except this time there's more
than your damned ego at stake.
DUVAL
(tightly)
I know only too well what's in the
balance, Doctor. And it's not my
ego, damned or otherwise.
540 GRANT
Looking thoughtfully after Duval.
541 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid and Carter are relieved to hear:
COMMUNICATIONS AIDE
Proteus turning into Quadrant 79,
Level F.
Reid presses button.
542 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Still in tableau. All hear:
REID'S VOICE
(o.s.)
The Proteus has passed the Inner
Ear.
Instantly the tension breaks. There is coughing,
clearing of throats. Someone sneezes, evoking:
AD LIBS
-- Just in time! I couldn't hold
it back another second!
-- I was afraid to breathe!
-- My foot's asleep.
-- Only one?
-- I thought I'd die when the
scissors hit the floor!
The Female Surgical Aide picks up the scissors.
543 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid is moving to the window overlooking the MAIN OPS
ROOM. Carter turns from the Minute Recorder, which now
reads 8.
CARTER
(on edge)
Only eight minutes left...
As he joins Reid and both look down into the MAIN OPS
ROOM, they see the Grid Officer moving the Proteus to
the Quadrant at the base of the Brain.
REID
(softly)
Imagine -- they're in the Human
Mind --
544 OUT
545 CEREBRAL LIGHTS
A dazzling display of flashing lights fills the screen.
Then as the CAMERA PANS DOWN slowly, we see a high wall
of complex circuitry, in which the tiny lights glow on
and off rapidly. Finally, as the CAMERA NEARS the
bottom, it reveals:
546 EXT. PROTEUS - IN CRANIAL FJORD
The sub seems a mere speck as it cruises through a chasm
formed by two walls of similar circuitry and electronic
pyrotechnics. There is a sense of order despite the
complexity.
547 INT. PROTEUS
Grant has joined Cora and Duval at the bow. The three
are deeply impressed and moved by what they see. Michaels
remains at the chart. As they look on:
DUVAL
(softly)
"Yet all the suns that light the
Corridors of the Universe shine dim,
Before the blazing of a Single Thought --"
GRANT
"Proclaiming in incandescent glory
The myriad Mind of Man..."
Cora looks at Grant in rather surprised awareness of this
other side of him.
MICHAELS
Very poetic, gentlemen. You seem
to see a great deal out there. Let
me know when we pass the Soul.
Duval turns from the bow windows to face Michaels with
the answer:
DUVAL
(quietly)
The Soul?..... The finite mind
cannot comprehend Infinity. And
the Soul which comes from God is
Infinite.
MICHAELS
Take a close look at your Soul, and
your Infinity, and your God out there --
548 GRANT
In thoughtful response to:
MICHAELS' VOICE
(o.s.)
-- and you'll find it's nothing
but a combination of atoms, molecules --
549 INT. PROTEUS
Not letting Duval interrupt:
MICHAELS
-- and certain chemicals involving
proteins --
DUVAL
You left something out.
MICHAELS
What's that?
DUVAL
(flatly)
The Breath of God...
Before Michaels can reply:
OWENS' VOICE
(from Bubble)
Doctor -- what's that up ahead?
They turn toward bow, see:
550 EXT. FOREST OF DENDRITES
As it comes into view with the sub turning the corner of
the chasm: a huge semi-circular area of branchlike
nerves, through which the cerebral lights flash. In the
center is the site of the injury. The lights stop at
its perimeter, as if short-circuited, causing a dark area.
DUVAL
(up at Bubble)
There it is. That's the site of
the injury -- the dark spot. We'd
better get prepared.
They move into the Lab Section, where they put on their
Breather Packs quickly during:
MICHAELS
It's too late...
Startled, they follow his look, see the Minute Recorder
now reads 6.
MICHAELS
You couldn't possibly operate and
get out before the hour's up.
(up at Bubble)
Captain, keep going. Head for the
Removal Point.
He begins to spread out a map of the Removal Area.
DUVAL
Removal Point? What're you talking
about!
MICHAELS
We have no alternative. With only
six minutes left, we'll just barely
make it.
GRANT
(up at Bubble)
Hold it, Skipper.
(to Michaels)
What happens if we overstay?
MICHAELS
Once time's up, De-Miniaturization
begins. In a matter of seconds the
ship will grow big enough to become
a danger to the System. Then White
Corpuscles will swarm to destroy it,
as they would any invader.
GRANT
(up at Bubble)
How long will it take to get from
here to the Removal Point?
OWENS'VOICE
(from above)
Approximately two minutes.
DUVAL
That still leaves me four minutes
to operate.
MICHAELS
All you'll succeed in doing is get-
ting us trapped!
(glancing at
Minute Recorder)
Captain, you will proceed immediately
to the Removal Point.
OWENS' VOICE
(from above)
Yes sir.
Grant moves quickly to the Manual Panel and throws some
key switches into the OFF position.
551 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is startled to see the lights over the buttons go
off, rendering the controls inoperative. The sub comes
to a stop at some distance from the Forest of Dendrites
and the dark area up ahead.
OWENS
My power's gone!
(looks down,
sees him)
Grant -- what're you doing!
A-551 INT. PROTEUS
With manner of taking over:
GRANT
Get the laser, Dr. Duval.
As Duval and Cora move quickly into the Lab Section:
MICHAELS
(furiously)
I'm in charge of this mission!
You were instructed to take orders
from me, not give them!
GRANT
Sorry, but the situation has changed.
MICHAELS
Nothing has changed as far as my
authority goes! He is not going
to operate! Not in the little time
we have left! There's no chance
of success! It's sheer suicide --
for all of us!
He breaks off as Duval and Cora come out of the Lab
Section carrying the laser and power unit. As they move
to the Escape Hatch door, which Grant opens:
MICHAELS
(furiously)
Dr. Duval, you are not going through
with this! I absolutely forbid it!
I'm responsible for the lives of
everyone here! I will not allow you
or anyone else to leave this ship!
DUVAL
I'm going to do what I can to save
Benes.
He steps into the Escape Hatch with Cora. Grant closes
the door.
MICHAELS
(raging at Grant)
You fool! Don't you see what
you've done? You've given him
a perfect opportunity to kill
Benes!
The lights start flashing red, indicating the Escape
Hatch is being flooded. Grant puts on his Breather Pack
during:
GRANT
I don't believe that.
MICHAELS
Why not? Because of his gibberish
about God and the Soul? Camouflage
-- that's all it is -- to blind the
gullible like you! And to hide his
real identity -- a fanatic whose
only purpose is to kill Benes! And
you made it possible!
The light over the Escape Hatch turns green. As Grant
opens the door:
GRANT
I've come up against fanatics
before, and Duval just doesn't
fit the pattern.
(up at Bubble)
I'm going out there, Skipper.
Maybe I can be of some help...
OWENS
Remember -- we can't take more than
five minutes to get out.
As Grant starts closing the door, he glances at:
B-551 MINUTE RECORDER
It now reads 5.
C-551 INT. PROTEUS
Grant closes the door. The light over it flashes red.
Michaels moves to the bow window to observe:
552- OUT
553
554 EXT. SITE OF INJURY - P.O.V. MICHAELS
Duval and Cora are swimming toward the dark spot with
the laser and the power unit. They reach:
555 EXT. SITE OF INJURY - CLOSER
Duval presses the laser control, not knowing if it will
work. To his relief, a beam of light shoots out.
Instantly a small portion of the clot begins to light
up. This gradual encroachment of flashing lights in
place of the dark area marks the progress of the operation.
556- OUT
557
A-557 EXT. VENTRAL HATCH
Grant drops out and starts toward Duval and Cora.
558 SECTION OF THROMBUS IN BRAIN
The laser beam is slowly dissolving away a small portion
of the vast darkness. Grant swims up. He glances at
his wrist watch.
GRANT
How does it look, Doctor?
DUVAL
(as he works)
If I can relieve the pressure on
a few key vessels...
More of the dark area lights up.
559 OUT
560 INT. PROTEUS - AT BOW WINDOWS
Watching, Michaels responds grimly to the increasing
number of flashing lights in the injured area. He turns
with grim resolution from the bow.
MICHAELS
(up at Bubble)
Skipper...
A-560 INT. BUBBLE
Owens is startled to hear:
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below)
There seems to be something wrong
with the Escape Hatch...
OWENS
What do you mean?
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from below;
imperatively)
Fluid is seeping through. Better
come down and have a look!
Quickly, Owens starts slipping out of his harness, starts
down the ladder leading into:
B-560 INT. PROTEUS - AT ESCAPE HATCH DOOR
Michaels is not visible in the angle of the shot as Owens
moves to the Escape Hatch, looking for the seepage.
Seeing nothing wrong:
OWENS
(turning; puzzled)
I don't see any sign of --
He breaks off, his expression reflecting horrified surprise
as a hand wielding the heavy crank of the winch smashes
down on his head before he has a chance to dodge it. Owens
slumps to the floor at the feet of:
561 MICHAELS
He drops the heavy tool, goes quickly to the Manual Panel,
throws the switches back into the ON position, restoring
all the controls to where they were before Grant changed
them. Then he climbs up into:
562 INT. BUBBLE
The lights over the buttons are all on again, indicating
the controls are in working order. As Michaels sits down
hastily and begins to slip into the harness, with him we
see:
563 OUT
564 EXT. SITE OF INJURY
Duval is aiming the laser in short bursts at a dark area
around the large Central Nerve. Grant glances at his
wrist watch.
GRANT
Doctor, we've just about had it.
DUVAL
If I can clear this Central Nerve,
that may be enough...
Unseen by them:
565 LONG SHOT - PROTEUS
In the distance it is swinging around in a wide arc above
them.
566- OUT
567
568 INT. BUBBLE
As Michaels maneuvers into position, he responds grimly
to:
569 EXT. SITE OF INJURY - P.O.V. INT. BUBBLE
Light begins to play along sections of the Central Nerve.
570- OUT
571
572 INT. BUBBLE
The bow is now lined up straight with the Central Nerve.
Face set, Michaels presses the FULL SPEED button.
573 EXT. JETS
The churning indicates full power is on. The Proteus
spurts ahead, speeding toward:
574 EXT. SITE OF INJURY - CENTRAL NERVE
More and more of the Central Nerve lights up as the
intervening darkness is dissolved by precise bursts of
the laser beam. Unaware of the oncoming sub, Duval and
Cora keep working. As Grant glances at his wrist watch,
electrical impulses begin racing in a continuous flow
through the Central Nerve, which is now incandescent
along its entire height.
DUVAL
That should be enough...
He looks critically at the results, as he normally would.
GRANT
We better get back to the sub.
Every second counts now.
CORA
(suddenly)
Look!
They follow the direction of her glance, are startled to
see:
575 EXT. PROTEUS
Speeding directly toward the Central Nerve high above
them. The person in the Bubble is indeterminate at the
distance and angle.
CORA'S VOICE
(o.s.)
It's heading right for the Nerve!
DUVAL'S VOICE
(o.s., confused)
I don't understand...
576 EXT. SITE OF INJURY
As they watch helplessly:
GRANT
(getting idea)
The laser! Let me have the laser!
Grant grabs the laser from Duval. With Cora trailing,
holding the power unit, Grant leads the way upward at
an angle to intercept:
577- OUT
589
590 EXT. PROTEUS
It is speeding toward the Central Nerve like a projectile
homing in on a target.
591 INT. BUBBLE
The incandescent Central Nerve looms closer and closer.
Michaels holds the controls in place with the fixed look
of a pilot on a suicide course.
592 GRANT, CORA AND PROTEUS
He stops swimming. She remains near him. The sub is
now over their heads, at an angle which makes the rudder
visible.
GRANT
Give me your widest beam! Full
power!
Cora turns a dial on the power unit. Grant takes careful
aim. A wide beam shoots out from the laser, across the
intervening distance and hits:
593 EXT. RUDDER AND REAR HULL
The concentrated light disintegrates the rudder and burns
open a large section of the hull.
A-593 INT. LAB SECTION
Fluid pours through the hole into:
594 OUT
A-594 INT. PROTEUS
The intact section with its trapped air holds off total
inundation. The unconscious Owens stirs, face up, the
liquid just short of covering him. The sub begins to
keel, owing to the inflow.
B-594 INT. BUBBLE
Michaels wrestles with the controls, trying to keep on
course, as the Central Nerve ahead looms closer and
closer. For a moment it appears he will be able to ram
it. But the increasing tilt suddenly causes:
C-594 EXT. PROTEUS - CENTRAL NERVE
To dive at a sharp angle, just barely missing the Central
Nerve.
595 INT. BUBBLE
Michaels wrestles with the controls, but to no avail.
Through the Bubble, he is startled to see:
596 EXT. FOREST OF DENDRITES - P.O.V. BUBBLE
It looms closer and closer as the Proteus dives inexor-
ably toward:
597 EXT. FOREST OF DENDRITES
Treelike branching nerves form an intricate mesh as if
in a dense forest. The Proteus careens into it, tearing
loose a section of nerve fibers. The sub keels over on
one side.
598 OUT
A-598 INT. BUBBLE
Now at a sharp tilt. The impact causes one of the arms
of the swivel chair to spring out of place, pinning
Michaels to the seat. Lying at an angle, he struggles
to break loose, without avail. Suddenly his startled
eyes fix on:
599 THE MINUTE RECORDER ON CONTROL PANEL
It flashes 0. The lights begin to dim.
A-599 INT. CONTROL TOWER - MINUTE RECORDER
Flashing 0. The SOUND of a warning siren is on loud.
It continues during the scene, adding urgency to the
reactions of all. Reid and Carter exchange grim looks.
REID
Time's up... We'll have to take
them out immediately.
CARTER
It means killing Benes...
(savagely)
And for all we know, they may have
completed the operation!
(slamming table)
Damn it to hell!
He turns away. Reid goes to the window overlooking
the OPERATING R00M.
REID
Remove the Proteus...
B-599 INT. OPERATING ROOM
For a moment only the undulating wail of the warning
siren is heard. Then:
CHIEF SURGEON
Prepare for trepanation...
One of the Surgical Technicians begins swabbing Benes'
head with alcohol.
C-599 OUT
D-599 INT. BUBBLE
The lights are almost out. It is now lit only by the
eerie glow of the pulsing flashes in the Forest of
Dendrites. Michaels is vainly trying to pry the steel
arm loose, but it holds him in a vise-like grip in the
chair. He looks fearfully toward the bow window, as if
knowing what to expect next.
600 EXT. EDGE OF FOREST OF DENDRITES
Grant, Duval and Cora are swimming through the maze of
nerves toward the sub lying at a sharp keel.
GRANT
The ship's good as finished.
We'll have to get out on our own!
Is there a quick way out?
DUVAL
We could follow the Optic Nerve
to the corner of the Eye.
CORA
It's beginning to grow...
They stop, treading water as they see:
A-600 EXT. PROTEUS
Growing visibly before their eyes.
AA-600 INT. BUBBLE
Michaels reacts as he sees the dendrites outside growing
smaller, which indicates the sub and he are growing larger.
B-600 EXT. EDGE OF FOREST OF DENDRITES
DUVAL
We've got to get them out.
As he starts toward the sub, Grant stops him.
GRANT
Hold it...
They follow his look, see:
601 WHITE CORPUSCLES - IN FOREST OF DENDRITES
Huge monster-like blobs are starting to ooze through the
nerves toward the Proteus, which is now about a quarter
as large as when last seen, and growing rapidly.
CORA'S VOICE
(o.s., horrified)
White Corpuscles!
602 EXT. EDGE OF FOREST OF DENDRITES
DUVAL
They'll ingest the ship and
everything in it!
GRANT
Stay here, both of you. Hold
them off, if you can.
He hands the laser to Duval and starts swimming toward:
A-602 EXT. PROTEUS - IN FOREST OF DENDRITES
The White Corpuscles are slithering through the inter-
laced dendrites. They are still some distance from the
disabled sub.
AA-602 MICHAELS - IN BUBBLE
He is horrified to see the White Corpuscles slide into
his view, though still removed from the sub. He renews
his frantic effort to break loose from the steel grip of
the sprung arm.
BB-602 EXT. DAMAGED HULL
Grant swims the hole through into:
CC-602 INT. LAB AND STORAGE SECTION
Quickly he makes his way through the narrow flooded area,
picking up two Breather Packs en route.
DD-602 INT. PROTEUS
Grant emerges into the air-filled portion, pushes up his
swim mask. He takes in the prone Owens and Michaels
pinned in the Bubble as:
MICHAELS
(frantically)
Grant! Help!
For a moment Grant stands between the unconscious man
and the one trapped in the Bubble. Then he hurriedly
unzips Owens' jumper, revealing the swim suit beneath.
Owens regains consciousness. During the above:
GRANT
What happened?
OWENS
(in a daze)
Dr. Michaels... He went berserk...
GRANT
(with realization)
Berserk nothing. He's the one
who's been sabotaging the mission...
(handing him
Breather Pack)
Get this on. Hurry!
MICHAELS' VOICE
(from Bubble;
frantically)
Grant!
EE-602 INT. BUBBLE
A monster-like cell is slithering toward the Bubble.
Michaels is tearing at the steel arm that holds him to
the chair.
MICHAELS
(with growing terror)
Macrophages!
Moving against the extreme tilt, Grant appears. Respond-
ing to the oncoming White Corpuscle, Grant pulls at the
steel arm with all his strength.
MICHAELS
(during above)
Get me out of here. Get me out!!
For all his effort, Grant is unable to free Michaels.
FF-602 WHITE CORPUSCLE
Gradually oozes over the entire Bubble, covering it.
GG-602 INT. BUBBLE
Grant makes a last desperate effort to free Michaels as
he sees the Bubble begin to dissolve beneath the body of
the adhering White Corpuscle. As the fluid body begins
flowing over Michaels:
MICHAELS
(in terror)
No... no...
His scream is cut off by the White Corpuscle engulfing
him. Grant jumps back into:
HH-602 INT. PROTEUS
OWENS
Come on -- it's no use!
GRANT
We can get out through the Lab
Section.
Both pull down their swim masks. Owens moves off,
followed by Grant.
II-602 INT. LAB SECTION
Owens is swimming through the hole. Grant follows through
the cramped area.
JJ-602 EXT. PROTEUS
Owens appears, swims off toward Duval and Cora. The two
are working the laser and power unit. Duval is hitting
the White Corpuscles and dissolving them in an attempt to
keep them off the sub, but without avail. The monster
cells are swarming in greater numbers.
KK-602 EXT. DAMAGED RUDDER
A monster White Corpuscle is flowing along it, down
toward the hole. As Grant now emerges, the White
Corpuscle grasps him in its tentacles.
B-602- OUT
D-602
E-602 GRANT AND WHITE CORPUSCLE
He struggles, unable to break out of the fluid mass
which engulfs him.
F-602 EXT. EDGE OF FOREST OF DENDRITES
Duval and Cora swim up. Duval aims the laser, presses
the trigger. The beam shoots out with surgical precision,
making a direct hit on:
G-602 VACUOLE OF WHITE CORPUSCLE
The nucleus of the monster cell disintegrates, releasing
Grant. He swims quickly toward:
H-602 EXT. FOREST OF DENDRITES
The three see another White Corpuscle moving after Grant.
Duval dissolves it just as the laser goes dead. As
Grant reaches them:
GRANT
You said there was a quick way
out!
DUVAL
What about Dr. Michaels?
GRANT
It's too late!
Duval drops the laser, turns and starts to swim off.
Cora drops the power unit. With Duval in the lead, they
swim as fast as they can through:
I-602 EXT. FOREST OF DENDRITES
The dendrites are now smaller in relation to the four as
they keep on through the Cranial Region of flashing lights.
603 EXT. PROTEUS
White Corpuscles are now festooned all over the sub and
flowing in through the Bubble and damaged portion of the
hull.
604- OUT
606
607 EXT. EDGE OF FOREST OF DENDRITES
The swimmers look back and respond to:
A-607 EXT. PROTEUS
It is crumbling like the Hindenburg Zeppelin. The White
Corpuscles are swarming over the remains, ingesting every
particle.
B-607 THE GROUP
Reacting to the destructive power of these internal
defenders. They swim off.
608- OUT
616
A-616 INT. OPERATING ROOM
The Chief Surgeon's gloves are on. Now all start to take
their places around the Operating Table. The operating
beams are switched on. The Chief Surgeon holds out one
hand. A Surgical Nurse slaps a scalpel into it.
B-616 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Standing at the window overlooking the OPERATING ROOM,
Carter and Reid can see the Chief Surgeon bending down
over Benes' head, about to make an incision. Carter
suddenly gets an idea, presses button.
CARTER
Hold it, Doctor!
C-616 BENES' HEAD AND SCALPEL
The cutting edge is a fraction of an inch from the
shaved head. It stops just in time. The Chief Surgeon
and the Surgical Team around the table look up toward
the window.
617 OUT
618 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Reid looks tensely at Carter.
REID
What is it?
CARTER
That blip we're picking up might
only be the radio-active particle.
The Proteus may already be destroyed...
REID
What're you getting at?
CARTER
(thoughtfully)
If I were in their place and I'd
run out of time, I'd abandon the
ship before I grew to dangerous
size... and use the few extra
minutes to get out the quickest
way possible, on my own...
REID
(with quick
realization)
Along the Optic Nerve to the Eye.
Swiftly, Reid crosses to the window overlooking the
OPERATING ROOM. He presses button.
619 INT. OPERATING ROOM
The Chief Surgeon and the others exchange tense looks
as they hear:
REID'S VOICE
(o.s.)
Wait thirty seconds...
He rushes through the door leading down to the Operating
Room.
620 OUT
621 EXT. ARACHNOID CORRIDOR - RIGHT OPTIC NERVE
Composed of a cobweb of fibers. Sausage-like links,
pinched in the center, compose the walls of the winding
passage. These are the Nodes of Ranvier. Intermittent
flashes leap across the Nodes, of varying intensity and
duration.
622 THE GROUP - IN RIGHT OPTIC NERVE
As he keeps swimming, Duval turns his head to the others.
DUVAL
(encouragingly)
Light impulses -- on the way to the
Brain! We're nearing the Eye!
They swim on with renewed effort. They are now larger
in relation to what they pass. Cora starts to fall
behind, unable to maintain the pace, for all her valiant
effort. Grant puts one arm around her waist and thus
manages to keep after Duval and Owens.
623- OUT
628
629 EXT. APEX OF CORNEA
The four climb up on what appears to be the top of a
huge transparent mound. The fluid is rapidly seeping
upward from the channel below. A low-domed ceiling --
the inside of the Eyelid -- which is bisected by a
crack, necessitates their crawling over the mound toward
a crevice which affords more height. They force them-
selves along exhausted, and reach:
630 OUT
631 INT. CREVICE BETWEEN EYELIDS
The four reach the grotto-like niche, where they can
stand erect at their increased size. As they rise from
their crawling position and lean panting in exhaustion
against the wall:
632- OUT
639
640 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Reid wheels over a magnifying glass mounted on a stand.
He bends down and pries open Benes' right Eyelid.
641 INT. CREVICE BETWEEN RIGHT EYELIDS
The four, their breath now regained, react in response
to the unexpected:
642 PARTING OF RIGHT EYELIDS
The bisected dome above them parts like the walls of the
Red Sea. Simultaneously the beam of the operating
lights blaze in with blinding intensity, causing the
four to shield their eyes and look down into the retina.
A-642 KALEIDOSCOPIC EFFECT
A symphony of colors is reflecting from the cones far
beneath, through the VITREOUS BODY and the manifold
furrows of the IRIS.
643- OUT
645
646 REID
He is bringing the magnifying glass into focal position.
As he squints through it, he reacts on seeing:
647 THE FOUR - THROUGH MAGNIFYING GLASS - ON SURFACE OF
EYEBALL
Now magnified, we see the four figures being swept
inexorably toward the far corner of the Eye by a flood
of water.
REID
(o.s.)
A glass slide! Quick!
Through the magnifying glass, we see their frantic
attempts to fight the sweep of the cascade. Just as
the four near the fall-off point, where the corner of
the lids join, the magnified end of a glass slide comes
into view and catches the teardrop -- with the four in
it.
648 INT. OPERATING ROOM
Reid carefully straightens up, holding the glass slide.
He can barely see:
649 EXT. GLASS SLIDE
Tiny specks are visible in the teardrop, moving about
in the fluid.
650 INT. OPERATING ROOM
All respond to Reid's imperative:
REID
Open those doors!
Holding the slide so the teardrop doesn't spill, Reid
moves quickly through the sliding doors into the
Miniaturization Room.
A-650 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Carter rushes to the window overlooking the MINIATURIZA-
TION ROOM.
B-650 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
All group around in silence, holding their breath as
Reid very slowly and carefully bends down and places
the glass slide on the platform. Above, at the window,
Carter can be seen looking down.
651 EXT. GLASS SLIDE - ON FLOOR
The tiny spots are growing visibly before our eyes.
652 INT. CONTROL TOWER
Carter, looking down into the MINIATURIZATION ROOM,
reacts as the four dots below on the glass slide
continue to grow and grow to the point where they can
be discerned on the platform, and a bedraggled quartet
it is. They look like survivors of a shipwreck:
dripping wet, exhausted, all the fight knocked out of
them. Owens is seated, head between his drawn-up knees;
Cora is leaning against Grant for support; Duval is
fighting for breath.
653 OUT
A-653 INT. MINIATURIZATION ROOM
Now fully grown, the four look about, amazed at where
they are. And the Surgical Team and Reid encircling
them are staring with equal confoundment...
DISSOLVE TO:
654 INT. CORRIDOR - CMDF HOSPITAL SECTION - DAY
Grant and Owens are driving a scooter. Both are rested,
freshly groomed. The scooter goes through door marked:
MEDICAL DIVISION
The scooter stops in:
A-654- OUT
658
A-658 INT. MEDICAL FOYER
They alight and go through door leading into:
B-658 INT. HOSPITAL ROOM
As Grant and Owens enter, they see Benes is propped up
on his bed, with Carter, Duval, Cora and Reid grouped
around him. Grant moves immediately to Benes.
GRANT
(warmly; extending
hand)
Hello, Mr. Benes... How's the prize
patient?
Benes smiles as they shake hands.
DUVAL
(beaming)
He's making a fine recovery.
CORA
He certainly is. He should be
up and about in no time.
OWENS
That's great.
Grant and Owens look toward Carter, who is pacing,
visibly upset.
CARTER
(answering their look)
Oh yes, great. The only problem is,
he can't remember what he came to
tell us.
GRANT
Can't remember?... What do you
mean?
CARTER
He's blanked out on that one
particular point.
REID
Yes, he can remember everything --
except how to control De-Miniaturi-
zation...
GRANT
Oh, no.
OWENS
After all that.
DUVAL
A specific area of memory may
have been destroyed by the laser
beam when Dr. Michaels interfered.
CARTER
As long as it isn't a certainty,
we've got to try everything possible
to make him remember!
OWENS
Well, if you have no further
need for me...
GRANT
Yes, we'd like to get moving.
CARTER
(mind only on
Benes)
Why don't you go on. We'll meet
you at the Clearance Desk in a few
minutes.
He paces, looking at Benes while:
GRANT
Good-bye, Mr. Benes. I must say
it's been quite an experience
knowing you.
Benes smiles weakly at the double-entendre. As Grant
starts out with Owens:
CARTER
Now how soon can we try Sodium
Pentathol?
REID
I'd hold that off awhile.
CARTER
Well, how about hypnosis? That
can't hurt him!
Benes closes his eyes wearily.
DUVAL
I suggest the first thing we try
is letting the patient get some
rest.
As he starts herding them out and they reach the door,
they are startled by a loud CRASH o.s. They rush out.
C-658 OUT
659 TWO SCOOTERS - AT INTERSECTION
Another scooter has run into the one containing Grant
and Owens with such impact that the two have been tossed
out. The M.P. is blowing his whistle, stopping all
traffic.
660 THE GROUP
Carter, Reid, Duval and Cora are running toward:
661 THE INTERSECTION
Grant is rising, holding the side of his head. Owens,
dazed but uninjured, is also getting up. As the others
reach them:
DUVAL
(of Grant)
He may have a head injury!
(to Reid)
Get him to the hospital!
Instantly, Grant grabs Owens and hustles him to their
scooter.
GRANT
Who, me? Oh, no! Don't bother
about me! We're not hurt! Isn't
that right, Skipper?
OWENS
(dazed)
Uh -- what?
GRANT
(getting him into
scooter)
We feel great, don't we? Just
great?!
OWENS
(catching on)
Oh -- sure, sure! Never better!
GRANT
(taking off)
Nothing wrong with us! Not a thing!
We're fine -- just fine!
In his haste, he almost runs into another scooter but
averts a crash by a matter of inches. He keeps going
at top speed, by-passing the stopped traffic by travel-
ing in the wrong lane.
662 LONG SHOT - SCOOTER
As it is lost to view down the long corridor...
FADE OUT
T H E E N D